Boca Juniors is facing a significant challenge as it prepares for the upcoming Club World Cup, with defender Ayrton Costa's visa to enter the United States denied once again. The 25-year-old player is currently on parole due to a legal history that complicates his ability to travel internationally.
The issue stems from an incident in June 2018 when Ayrton, along with his brother and another individual, was accused of invading a residence in Bernal Oeste, Buenos Aires. Although they were apprehended by police, none were formally arrested. Since then, Ayrton has been responding to charges of qualified robbery with gang formation while under conditional liberty.
At the end of 2024, Ayrton's visa application was denied by U.S. authorities, prompting Boca Juniors to submit a new request in early 2025. Unfortunately, this latest attempt also resulted in a negative outcome. According to Argentine media, the club had hoped to receive support from international football organizations to help resolve the situation, but the impasse remains, just over a month before the tournament.
Boca Juniors is set to debut in the Club World Cup on June 14, 2025, facing off against Bayern Munich, Auckland City, and Benfica in a highly competitive group. The potential absence of Ayrton Costa could significantly impact the team's defensive strategy, as he is considered a valuable asset within the squad. The club's management had anticipated a resolution to the visa issue before the tournament, but with time running out, they are now evaluating alternatives to adjust their roster.
Meanwhile, the 2026 World Cup is on the horizon, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, and it promises to be a historic event, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This will be the first time the tournament features 48 teams and 104 matches, attracting millions of fans worldwide, including many from Brazil who are eager to support their national team in pursuit of a sixth title.
For Brazilian fans, securing the necessary visas is a crucial step in their travel preparations. The American B-2 visa is essential for those planning to attend matches in the U.S., which will host 60 of the 80 games, including the final. The visa also facilitates entry into Mexico and, in some instances, Canada, making travel logistics simpler for supporters.
Obtaining the B-2 visa involves several formal steps, starting with ensuring that the passport is valid until the end of the trip. The next step is to complete the DS-160 form online, which requires detailed information about the trip, personal history, and ties to Brazil. Each family member, including children, must fill out a separate form, and any errors can lead to delays or denials.
After completing the form, applicants must pay a non-refundable consular fee of $185, which is approximately R$ 925. This payment must be confirmed within three business days to schedule the in-person steps. The process includes two visits: one to the Visa Application Center for biometrics and another to the consulate for an interview. The average wait time for these stages was between 30 to 70 days in 2024, a significant improvement from the 400 days reported in 2022.
Applicants must prepare for the consular interview, which typically lasts from one to five minutes and focuses on the purpose of the trip, duration of stay, and financial means. Clear and honest answers are essential, as inconsistencies can lead to denial. In 2021, the approval rate for Brazilian applicants was 85%, reflecting a favorable trend, but thorough preparation is still necessary.
For those interested in attending matches in Canada, the Visitor Visa or the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) are options. The Visitor Visa is recommended for land or sea entries, while the eTA is valid only for air arrivals and is quicker and cheaper for those who already possess a U.S. visa.
Mexico offers an advantage for Brazilian fans, as those with a valid U.S. visa do not require a separate visa to enter the country. This exemption simplifies logistics for those planning to watch games in cities like Mexico City or Guadalajara.
As the tournament approaches, financial planning becomes vital. The visa fee is just the beginning, with additional costs for travel to consulates, accommodations, and meals during the application process adding up. Fans should also consider purchasing travel insurance, as healthcare costs in the U.S. and Canada can be exorbitant.
The 2026 World Cup will take place in 16 cities across the three host countries, with 11 locations in the U.S., three in Mexico, and two in Canada. Iconic stadiums like the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City are set to host matches. The logistics of moving between cities will require careful planning, especially for fans wanting to attend games in multiple locations.
As fans gear up for the World Cup, it’s essential to stay informed about visa processes and travel regulations, especially with the ongoing changes in U.S. immigration policy under the Trump administration. Recent reports indicate that the administration is adopting more restrictive immigration rules, which could impact the issuance of work visas, including the H1-B visa for skilled workers.
Despite these challenges, experts believe that the U.S. will continue to prioritize skilled professionals, as the economy relies on talent in fields like technology and healthcare. This perspective is echoed by immigration attorney Murtaz Navsariwala, who notes that the issuance of H1-B visas is unlikely to face significant restrictions.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, fans must navigate the complexities of visa applications and travel arrangements to ensure they can witness this monumental event. With the excitement building, it is crucial to prepare thoroughly and stay updated on all necessary requirements.
