Switzerland’s Embolo Cleared for US Travel

Swiss striker Breel Embolo has received final authorization to enter the United States, allowing him to reunite with his national team as they finalize preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The forward had been left behind when the squad departed on Tuesday because his ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application was undergoing a security review.

The Swiss Football Federation confirmed the resolution of the issue in a statement, noting that Embolo’s travel clearance has been granted. "We have just been informed that Breel Embolo's visa has been approved," the federation said. "He will therefore be able to travel to the United States. He is expected to join the team on Friday evening."

The delay in processing Embolo’s ESTA stemmed from a previous legal incident. In 2018, the 29-year-old was involved in an altercation in Basel. He was subsequently convicted in 2023 of issuing multiple threats and received a suspended fine. Although the verdict was upheld on appeal, Swiss media reported in April that Embolo chose not to appeal further to the Federal Court, thereby making the judgment final. Following this development, he visited the US Embassy in Bern on Wednesday to facilitate the approval process.

Embolo, who has netted 23 goals in 85 appearances for Switzerland and represented his country at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, will now join his teammates ahead of the tournament, which spans Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Switzerland is scheduled to base themselves in San Diego. Their tournament campaign kicks off on June 13 in Santa Clara against Qatar. The squad will then face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Inglewood on June 18 before concluding their Group B matches against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on June 24.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 22:14:46 UTC