Nightmare over for Breel Embolo as Switzerland striker finally cleared to join World Cup squad after visa delay

Switzerland have received a major boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup after Breel Embolo was finally granted permission to travel to the United States following a frustrating visa delay.

The striker had been left behind when the Swiss squad departed for their training base in California earlier this week, but the uncertainty surrounding his participation has now been brought to an end.

Visa issue leaves Embolo stranded

Embolo was unable to travel with his international team-mates on Tuesday after his ESTA travel authorisation was unexpectedly placed under additional review shortly before departure.

While the rest of Switzerland’s squad headed to their pre-tournament camp in San Diego, the 29-year-old remained in Switzerland waiting for a final decision from U.S. authorities.

The delay immediately raised concerns about his availability for the tournament and threatened to disrupt his preparations ahead of one of the biggest competitions of his career.

Fortunately for both player and country, the issue has now been resolved.

Swiss federation confirms positive news

The Swiss Football Federation confirmed on Thursday that Embolo’s visa application had been approved and that the striker would travel to the United States to join the squad.

In an official statement, the federation said:

“We have just been informed that Breel Embolo’s visa has been approved. He will therefore be able to travel to the United States. He is expected to join the team on Friday evening.”

The development allows Switzerland to continue their World Cup preparations with one of their most experienced attacking players available for selection.

Additional checks triggered delay

According to reports, the delay was linked to additional background checks requested by American authorities.

Embolo attended an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Bern on Wednesday as officials reviewed documentation connected to a previous legal matter stemming from a 2018 altercation in Basel.

Authorities also reportedly requested records relating to a 2023 conviction involving multiple threats, a case that resulted in a suspended fine and became legally binding earlier this year.

Although those matters had already been dealt with through the Swiss legal system, they prompted further scrutiny under U.S. entry regulations before a final decision was reached.

Switzerland handed timely World Cup boost

With the issue now resolved, Embolo can focus entirely on football as Switzerland prepare for their World Cup campaign.

The forward remains one of the most important figures in the national team setup, bringing valuable tournament experience, leadership and attacking quality to the squad.

His arrival in San Diego will come as a significant relief to both the coaching staff and supporters, who feared a prolonged delay could impact his readiness for the competition.

After several anxious days of uncertainty, Embolo’s World Cup dream remains firmly on track, with the Switzerland star now set to join his team-mates and begin the final stages of preparation for football’s biggest stage.