Gary Lineker has shared details about his visa application process for the 2026 World Cup in North America and expressed concerns about potential travel restrictions. The former England footballer mentioned having conversations with officials at the White House regarding the upcoming event.
As excitement builds for the tournament, there are worries that many fans and supporters may encounter obstacles entering the United States due to visa issues and immigration policies, particularly for countries like Iran and Haiti, which are currently under a US travel ban.
Recent reports have highlighted the scrutiny faced by journalists, including social media checks and device inspections upon entry into the country. Lineker is gearing up for the World Cup as his podcast, “The Rest Is Football,” has secured a deal with Netflix for a daily show to be recorded in New York City, featuring co-hosts Micah Richards and Alan Shearer.
Reflecting on the uncertainties surrounding visas and entry into the US, Lineker remarked during a recent Q&A session that the global landscape is rapidly changing, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic arrangements. Despite expressing some reservations, he remains optimistic about the visa process and the White House’s support for his podcast’s involvement in the World Cup.
Acknowledging past controversies and challenges faced by host countries, Lineker highlighted the common pre-tournament concerns and controversies that often arise before major sporting events. Despite the ongoing uncertainties, he remains hopeful that the upcoming World Cup will proceed smoothly once the focus shifts to the football matches.
In other news, Sky has announced discounted rates for its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, offering extensive coverage of live matches across various sports leagues, including the Premier League, EFL, Formula 1, darts, and golf.