US bans Ivory Coat supporters from World Cup

Ivory Coast home-based fans have been denied U.S. visas ahead of the World Cup, according to the president of the country’s supporters’ committee.

The National Committee of Elephants Supporters said the trip has been cancelled after U.S. authorities declined entry to some supporters, dealing a blow to fans hoping to travel and back the team in person. The committee said the decision has left supporters deeply disappointed, especially with Ivory Coast set to play two group matches in Philadelphia.

The supporters have cancelled the trip because the US government does not want to see supporters from certain countries, including Ivory Coast, on its soil. The United States has been clear with us, saying they do not want to see our supporters,” said Kouadio.