2026 World Cup: Ivory Coast deprived of its supporters! (Official)

Africa Today at 08:15

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Just days before their debut at the 2026 World Cup, Ivory Coast faces an unprecedented situation. The Elephants will have to compete without the backing of their supporters, who have fallen victim to entry restrictions imposed by US authorities.

The 2026 World Cup hasn't even kicked off, and Ivory Coast is already reeling from a huge disappointment. According to L’Équipe, the Elephants are set to play the entire group stage without the support of fans traveling from home, due to entry restrictions enforced by American authorities.

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A World Cup without Ivorian supporters

The situation is especially bitter for the leaders of the National Committee of Elephants Supporters (CNSE).

“The United States made it clear to us that they did not want to see our supporters,” lamented its president, Julien Kouadio Adonis.

Indeed, the CNSE had hoped to rally around 500 fans to support the team in the United States. However, after lengthy procedures, only a handful of officials were ultimately granted a visa.

“It took a lot of discussion and negotiation just to be heard,” Kouadio revealed.

A situation beyond Ivory Coast

The frustration is even greater as the supporters see this absence as a real heartbreak.

“This situation hurts us deeply, as it prevents us from fulfilling our fundamental duty—to support our team,” added the Ivorian leader.

Moreover, this issue isn't limited to Ivory Coast alone. Somali referee Omar Artan was also turned away despite having a valid visa. This comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had warned: “Your ticket is not a visa.” The controversy is only growing just hours before the biggest World Cup in history kicks off.

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