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Fresh concerns have emerged over travel arrangements for the 2026 World Cup after a Scotland supporter was left facing the prospect of missing the tournament despite spending more than £10,000 on flights, accommodation and match tickets.
The case has now reached Westminster, with MPs urging government intervention as questions continue to be raised about entry procedures for fans travelling to the United States.
UK government urged to help fans heading out to the 2026 World Cup
Tartan Army supporter Kenny Smith had been preparing to fly to North America to follow Scotland at their first World Cup since 1998.
However, despite previously travelling to the United States without issue and holding a valid ESTA authorisation, he was informed last week that his status had changed to “not authorised”.
Smith, who says he has no criminal record and had already committed more than £10,000 towards the trip, is now racing against time to secure a visa before Scotland's opening match against Haiti at Boston Stadium on Sunday 14th June.
The issue has been raised by Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross MP Jamie Stone, who called on the UK Government to assist and seek answers over the decision.
First Minister John Swinney also acknowledged the frustrations faced by supporters, confirming that discussions had taken place with US officials and that affected fans had been advised to pursue visas through FIFA's dedicated process.
The case comes amid wider concerns over World Cup travel arrangements, with several fans, players and even match officials encountering visa or entry-related complications in the build-up to the tournament.
FGG says: More unwanted controversy just days before kick-off
While every country has the right to control its own immigration processes, situations like this only add to the growing list of off-field controversies surrounding the 2026 World Cup.
The most frustrating aspect is the lack of clarity. If supporters have previously travelled without issue and suddenly find authorisation revoked without a clear explanation, it inevitably creates uncertainty for thousands of other fans preparing to travel.
Hopefully, Smith's case can be resolved before Scotland's opener, but the story also highlights a wider concern.
After months of ticketing disputes, pricing complaints and travel worries, the last thing FIFA needed heading into the tournament was another headline involving supporters potentially being unable to attend.
For fans who have invested huge sums of money and years of anticipation into following their country, certainty and transparency should be the bare minimum.