Athletes Exempted from Travel Ban for Major U.S. Events

Athletes from countries affected by recent travel restrictions will still be able to compete on American soil when the world's biggest sporting events arrive.

The State Department confirmed this week that players, coaches, and support staff from 39 countries under visa restrictions can attend major sporting competitions in the U.S. The decision ensures the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics will feature full international participation.

The exemption extends far beyond just those two headline events. Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved a comprehensive list covering competitions across dozens of sports, from the NBA and NFL to NASCAR, Special Olympics, and professional wrestling.

College athletes competing in NCAA events also qualify for the exemption. So do participants in Paralympic Games, Pan-American Games, and events sanctioned by U.S. National Governing Bodies.

The policy specifically targets competitive participants rather than general attendees. Foreign spectators, media members, and corporate sponsors still face the visa restrictions unless they qualify for separate exemptions.

Countries under full travel bans include Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Somalia, among others. Partial restrictions apply to nations like Cuba, Venezuela, and several African countries.

The Bright Side

This decision protects the integrity of international sports competition while maintaining border security priorities. Athletes who've trained their entire lives for moments on the world stage won't be denied their chance to compete.

The exemption list remains flexible, with provisions to add other events and leagues as needed. This approach balances security concerns with America's longstanding role as a host for global athletic excellence.

Sports have always had unique power to unite people across borders and backgrounds. When the World Cup kicks off next year and Olympic athletes march into Los Angeles in 2028, fans worldwide will see competitors from every corner of the globe.

The policy ensures that talent, not geography, determines who takes the field.