Switzerland await visa decision as Breel Embolo misses flight to World Cup camp

By SABC Sport
3rd June 2026

Switzerland's World Cup preparations have been disrupted after star striker Breel Embolo was unable to travel with the squad to the United States due to a visa issue linked to a criminal conviction that became legally binding earlier this year.

The 29-year-old forward was denied boarding on Tuesday after his travel authorisation was placed under review by US authorities, forcing him to remain in Switzerland while the rest of Murat Yakin's squad departed for their training base in San Diego ahead of the tournament.

The Swiss Football Association confirmed that Embolo has since submitted an urgent visa application at the US embassy in Bern and is awaiting approval to join his teammates as soon as possible.

According to the federation, the issue stems from a legal case dating back to an altercation in Basel city centre in 2018. Embolo was convicted after being charged in connection with the incident, with an appeal court upholding the verdict in September last year. The ruling became final in April after no further appeal was lodged.

Swiss officials said discussions with US authorities have focused on the nature of the offence, stressing that the case did not involve physical violence.

"The embassy's inquiries focused specifically on whether any physical violence had been involved. This was not the case," the federation said in a statement.

The setback came as a surprise to the Swiss camp, particularly as Embolo had travelled to the United States without issue for international friendlies in 2025. However, the finalisation of the court verdict appears to have triggered additional scrutiny under US immigration procedures.

Despite the disruption, Swiss officials remain hopeful that the Rennes striker will receive clearance in time to take part in preparations for the tournament. The federation said it is in ongoing contact with the relevant authorities and expects a decision soon.

Embolo is a key figure in Switzerland's plans for the World Cup and is expected to lead the line during the tournament. He has scored 24 goals in 86 appearances for his country and is preparing to feature at the third World Cup of his career.

Switzerland open their Group B campaign against Qatar on June 13 in Santa Clara before facing Bosnia and Herzegovina in California. Their final group-stage match will be against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on June 24.

With the countdown to the tournament underway, Switzerland will be hoping their leading striker can swiftly resolve the administrative hurdle and join the squad before their opening fixture.