Switzerland has received positive news regarding Breel Embolo after the forward was granted approval to enter the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The striker had been unable to travel with the rest of the national team earlier this week because his Esta authorization was undergoing a review process.
The Swiss Football Federation confirmed that permission had now been granted, allowing the 29-year-old to make the journey and link up with his international colleagues. According to the federation, Embolo is expected to arrive and join the squad on Friday evening.
The issue centered on the Esta system, which determines whether foreign visitors can enter the United States without obtaining a standard visa before travel.
Court case led to application review
The examination of Embolo’s travel authorization was connected to a legal case stemming from an incident in Basel in 2018. A Swiss court found the attacker guilty in 2023 of making multiple threats and imposed a suspended financial penalty.
An appeal against the decision was unsuccessful, and reports from Swiss media in April stated that the Stade Rennais player chose not to pursue the matter further at the Federal Court. As a result, the ruling became final.
Before receiving permission to travel, Embolo attended an appointment at the United States Embassy in Bern on Wednesday. Shortly afterward, approval was issued, clearing the way for his departure.
Switzerland prepare for tournament campaign
The experienced forward has represented Switzerland 85 times and scored 23 international goals. He was also part of the squads that competed at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
During this summer’s competition, Switzerland will establish their base in San Diego. The tournament is being staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Their opening Group B fixture is scheduled against Qatar in Santa Clara on 13 June. Switzerland will then face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Inglewood on 18 June before concluding the group stage against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on 24 June.