Visa Woes Block Swiss Star Embolo from World Cup

Switzerland striker Breel Embolo is currently navigating a complex U.S. visa application process due to a past criminal conviction. This situation prevented him from traveling with the national team to the FIFA World Cup.

Embolo attended an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Bern on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, after his ESTA travel authorization faced review. The Swiss Football Federation (SFV) confirmed that American authorities are treating his visa application with priority.

The conviction dates back to a 2018 altercation in Basel, where Embolo received a suspended fine for making multiple threats. An appeals court upheld the verdict, which became legally binding in April. U.S. officials requested court documents to clarify the nature of the incident.

The SFV emphasized that no physical violence was involved in the altercation. Travelers using the Visa Waiver Program are required to disclose any criminal history and may need to apply for a visa if not eligible for ESTA. Embolo had previously traveled to the U.S. without issue in June 2025.

The 29-year-old is a key player for Switzerland, expected to lead their attack at the World Cup. Switzerland's Group B matches are scheduled for June 13 against Qatar, followed by games against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Canada.