The 2026 World Cup has been handed another serious obstacle to overcome after fans from 15 competing nations had their visa applications frozen by Donald Trump. The State Department released an internal memo on Wednesday that directed consular officers to deny visas from 75 different countries while the department reexamines procedures for screening and vetting applicants. Of those 75, 15 are due to compete in this summer's tournament across the US, Mexico and Canada - including one of the big favorites: Brazil. 'The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,' State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said. Trump is said to have been briefed in recent days about his options, including strikes on nonmilitary sites in Tehran.

Source: Daily Mail January 14, 2026 20:06 UTC