A rather puzzling decision.
Another scandal erupts on the eve of the World Cup. According to NTV Iraq, five players from the Iraq national team have been denied visas to participate in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Iraq’s matches were slated to take place in the US, but this development has put those plans at risk unless the visa issues are resolved. Among those denied entry is 24-year-old striker Ali Al-Hamadi, who currently plays for Luton Town in England.
This situation follows previous comments from former US President Donald Trump, who indicated that representatives from certain participating countries could face challenges in acquiring US visas ahead of the World Cup.
At the Mundial, Iraq has been drawn into Group I, where they will compete against France, Norway, and Senegal.