Visa Issues Threaten Breel Embolo’s Participation in 2026 World Cup

Breel Embolo’s participation in the 2026 World Cup is in jeopardy as he was unable to travel with the Swiss national team to the United States due to entry permit issues.

The Swiss squad is gearing up for the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The team departed for the U.S. on Tuesday, but Embolo was absent from the flight.

According to Swiss newspaper Blick, the 29-year-old striker was prepared to board the plane with his teammates when an unexpected issue arose at the airport, preventing him from completing his travel arrangements.

The Swiss Football Association confirmed that Embolo’s travel permit is still under review by the relevant authorities, noting that it is related to a court ruling stemming from an incident in 2018.

These developments come just days before the World Cup kicks off, raising concerns about Embolo’s ability to join his national team in time for their matches.

Switzerland will compete in Group B of the tournament alongside Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Canada.