Michael Brian Lee reflects on the personal impact of US visa restrictions during the 2026 World Cup, highlighting how these policies prevent fans from certain African countries, including Zimbabwe, from attending matches.

Despite the World Cup's promise of global unity and temporary citizenship through sport, many fans are barred from participating purely based on their nationality rather than individual behaviour.

Lee draws attention to the contradiction of welcoming African players in elite European football leagues while restricting African fans at international tournaments.

He underscores that the World Cup is more than a sporting event; it is a deeply emotional experience for immigrant and diaspora communities, embodying reunion, identity, pride, and belonging.

The article critiques the symbolic message sent by hosting a global event while excluding a significant portion of the world and questions the fairness and logic behind the selective visa bans.Lee also touches on the financial barriers and logistical challenges fans face, making the event increasingly inaccessible.

Ultimately, the piece highlights the tension between global sport and national border policies, emphasising that the spirit of the World Cup depends on the free movement and inclusion of all fans.