Activists Accuse Trump of Targeting World Cup Teams, Detaining Iraqi Striker for 7 Hours
Updated
Updated · NBC Chicago · Jun 9
Activists Accuse Trump of Targeting World Cup Teams, Detaining Iraqi Striker for 7 Hours
3 articles · Updated · NBC Chicago · Jun 9
Summary
Chicago activists said World Cup athletes, staff and officials from Iraq, Iran and other countries faced unfair scrutiny at O'Hare and other U.S. entry points days before the June 11 tournament start.
Two Iraqi team travelers were sent to additional inspection, activists said one star striker was held for seven hours, and CBP said a team photographer was denied entry as inadmissible based on classified information.
The Arab American Action Network also cited alleged restrictions on Iran's team requiring same-day entry and exit for matches, while videos purportedly showed Senegal players searched on the tarmac after landing.
Iran's soccer federation separately said FIFA revoked fan ticket allocations for its three U.S. group-stage games, adding to concerns over access and treatment during the 2026 World Cup.
At the press conference, organizers demanded a moratorium on ICE activity in and around stadiums as teams arrive for friendlies and tournament play across the United States.