FIFA news: Star striker barred from entering US ahead of World Cup

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World Cup 2026 Weekly news. We will bring you the latest from around the world as we countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Star striker barred from entering US ahead of World Cup

Visa issues are mounting around the globe with Switzerland striker Breel Embolo forced to remain home while the rest of his World Cup teammates travelled to American after his visa was sent for "further investigation".

Hours before he was set to fly, the Swiss Football Association was informed that the 29-year-old's papers had been sent for further review because of a 2023 conviction of threatening behaviour against him.

“Unfortunately, Breel Embolo is currently unable to travel to the United States with the team,” the association said in a statement.

“His ESTA authorisation had been approved until this morning. However, at 10:30am, we were informed that his ESTA application had been placed under further review.”

The bizarre element is that his visa had been approved and then withdrawn at the last minute.

Moreover, Rennes striker Embolo has played in the USA since the conviction.

Switzerland get their campaign started against Qatar on June 15 (AEST).

33 banned items as booze rules revealed

Might be strange for some states in America but no guns are allowed at World Cup games.

They're just one of 33 banned items along with other obvious things such as explosives, drugs and fireworks.

Fans also have a clearer idea of the consumption regulations in place and they're strict.

No spirits after half-time and absolutely no alcohol after the 75th minute (even if it goes to penalties).

BANNED ITEMS

• Weapons and Irritants: All firearms, ammunition, knives, blades, tasers, mace, pepper spray, or self-defence items.

• Explosives and flammables: Fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, lighters, matches, compressed gases, and corrosive or toxic materials.

• Tools and Gear: Work tools, body armour, martial arts gear, and sports equipment (e.g., darts, frisbees, inflatable balls).

• Identity Concealment: Helmets and masks designed to hide identity (exemptions: religious headwear and medical masks).

• Bags: Non-transparent bags, backpacks, large purses, and camera bags are generally prohibited.

• Large Items: Any item exceeding 75 cm (29.5 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height), including folding chairs, strollers, bicycles, and scooters.

• Containers: Glass bottles, jars, cans, flasks, Thermoses, hard thermal boxes, and large permanent markers.

• Alcohol: Strictly prohibited unless purchased and consumed in designated stadium areas.

• Liquids: Limited to 100ml (including hand sanitiser).

• Exceptions: Baby milk/water (up to 1L) and medical liquids (up to 500ml with a certificate).

• Food: Prohibited unless purchased inside or required for babies or medical reasons (with a certificate). No glass packaging.

• Powders and Paper: Massive quantities of paper/rolls, and any loose powders (except small makeup compacts)

• Medication: Illegal drugs are banned. Prescription meds require a certificate. Over-the-counter meds are limited to one factory-sealed package containing no more than 7 different medicines.

• Animals: Prohibited, except for official service animals.

• Smoking: Cigarettes and vapes are not permitted

• Discretionary Items: Any object deemed by organisers to be a safety risk, projectile hazard (e.g., umbrellas, hard hats), or a public nuisance.

FREE TICKETS

We're into the home straight when it comes to counting down to the tournament getting started but now, after months of bad publicity when it comes to ticket prices, it seems some fans might get in for free!

The Saudi Arabian Football Association has taken matters into its own hands and will hand out complimentary tickets to fans on the ground to ensure there is a crowd.

Saudi Arabia, ranked 61st in the world, have been drawn in Group H where they will come up against Spain, Cape Verde and Uruguay and with tickets costing upwards of $AUD1,000, fans on the ground could be in for a treat.

“The countdown begins for the FIFA World Cup," the country's embassy said over the weekend.

“On this occasion, Saudi Arabia is offering free tickets for Saudi National Team fans present in the US.

“We wish our national team the best of luck as it represents the Kingdom with pride, passion, and the full force of a nation behind them.”

VISA ISSUES

South Africa's team are on their way to the World Cup but half the support staff and coaches are stranded.

The entire squad was scheduled to leave for America on Sunday (AEST) but had their travel plans thrown into doubt and delayed 24 hours because someone forgot to sort the Visas out in time.

Every player had been approved and they are clear to travel on Monday but they will be without an assistant coach, team doctor and head of security, according to the public broadcaster.

“This SAFA travel & visa debacle is embarrassing & grossly unfair towards the players & coaching staff,” South Africa’s sport minister Gayton McKenzie posted on social media.

“I have informed SAFA that I need a report and action must be taken against those responsible for this mess.

“We are being made to look like fools.”

South Africa are due to play the opening match of the tournament against Mexico on June 12 (AEST).

Rule changes play out

FIFA has made no secret of the rule changes that will be implemented at this World Cup and we saw one such change come into play over the weekend with Japan scoring against Iceland while they were down to 10-men for breaching the sub timings rule.

Players have 10-seconds to leave the pitch and if they do not, their replacement has to wait for 60-seconds.

RULES CHANGES TO WATCH FOR

• Five-second countdowns for throw-ins and goal-kicks
• Red cards for players covering their mouths during confrontations
• Punishments for teams walking off the pitch in protest
• Mandatory one-minute off-field treatment periods
• Mandatory hydration breaks each half