Swiss striker Breel Embolo granted US visa for 2026 World Cup
Swiss forward Breel Embolo, 29, has had his US entry permission approved after a review of his earlier ESTA denial linked to a 2018 Basel incident. The US embassy in Bern confirmed that the visa was granted, allowing Embolo to travel to the United States on Friday and join the Swiss national team stationed in San Diego ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Embolo, who has appeared in 86 matches for Switzerland and scored 24 goals, missed the team’s flight from Zurich to Los Angeles on Tuesday because his ESTA was placed under additional scrutiny. The review stemmed from a Swiss court conviction for multiple threats made during a 2018 altercation, resulting in a suspended fine. After the final judgement was upheld, US authorities verified that no physical violence was involved and cleared his travel.
With the visa now secured, Embolo is expected to partake in final preparations, including a friendly against Australia on 7 June, before Switzerland’s opening group match against Qatar on 13 June. The resolution removes a significant logistical hurdle for the Swiss squad ahead of the tournament.