United States: Intense and rigid security screenings of high-profile football teams and star players at US airports have sparked widespread debate and criticism during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Several videos circulating on social media show squads from Senegal, Uzbekistan, and Germany undergoing exceptionally stringent checks by security personnel.
In addition to these screenings, teams from Iran and Iraq faced severe immigration hurdles, resulting in certain players being interrogated for hours and multiple support staff members being deported.
The controversy initially gained traction after a video of the Senegal national team went viral.
The footage showed players dressed in their official team kits standing on the airport runway alongside their luggage as security officials conducted thorough inspections before allowing them into the terminal.
Similarly, the Uzbekistan squad was subjected to sniffing dogs and advanced security equipment upon their arrival for a friendly match against the Netherlands.
Even European powerhouse Germany could not bypass the rigorous protocols. Ahead of their crucial match against Ivory Coast, the German team underwent strict security clearance prior to their departure for Toronto.
Most recently, Lionel Messi and the reigning champions, Argentina, faced identical measures.
Security officials subjected the team to intensive checks right before they boarded their flight.
While Messi initially appeared startled by the rigid procedures, he was seen smiling in amusement.
The incident has triggered massive reactions on social media, with fans expressing disbelief that a global icon like Messi was subjected to such aggressive screening.
