A Scottish soccer fan named Kenny Smith has described feeling devastated after unexpectedly losing his ability to travel to the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Smith’s trip was planned in anticipation of witnessing Scotland’s return to the tournament for the first time since 1998. The abrupt revocation of his Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) led him into a stressful visa application process.
Smith, a musician and business owner from Inverness, expressed disappointment over missing what he called a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.’ Initially approved, his ESTA, valid until 2027, suddenly changed to ‘Travel Not Authorized.’ This shift forced him into an urgent and costly visa application process, echoing the experiences of other Scots slated to travel for the competition.
In an interview with Newsweek, Smith voiced expectations that the U.S. would extend a warm welcome to Scottish fans, noting American ties to Scotland, including Donald Trump’s Scottish heritage. He highlighted the reciprocal hospitality Scots have shown Americans, urging for a swift return of the gesture.
Challenges For Scottish Fans
Several Scottish enthusiasts, part of the ‘Tartan Army,’ have had their travel permissions revoked only days before Scotland’s upcoming match against Haiti. In response, Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, reached out to U.S. agencies seeking resolution to allow fans to attend the matches.
Another fan, Michael Wright, experienced his ESTA status switch from ‘approved’ to ‘travel not authorized’ just before his flight. Newsweek contacted the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the State Department seeking clarity on these denied entries.
Unexplained Denials and Stricter Regulations
Per DHS guidelines, ESTAs can be denied or revoked due to eligibility issues. Reasons vary from criminal activity to overstayed prior visits. The Trump administration emphasized stricter immigration enforcement, ensuring all ESTA applications are vetted thoroughly.
Smith lamented the lack of explanation for his status change, stressing that he has no criminal record. He has faced financial burdens, including non-refundable hotel bookings and flights, as well as a lack of assistance from his travel insurance provider.
Calls for Public Apology
Smith feels a public apology from U.S. authorities is warranted for the inconvenience faced by Scottish fans. He notes that even though the disappointment didn’t financially ruin him, others might not be as fortunate.
The Scottish government is reportedly doing all it can to address the situation, with Smith’s local Member of Parliament, Jamie Stone, providing significant assistance. Stone raised the issue during the Scottish parliament’s question-and-answer session, emphasizing the importance of resolving these visa concerns swiftly.
Stone remarked on the unity football brings across borders and expressed optimism that the U.S., UK, and Scottish governments will collaborate to resolve the issues quickly, allowing fans to participate in the World Cup experience.