The head of the Palestinian Football Association has been left waiting in Mexico City after being denied a visa to enter the United States, where federation chiefs from around the world have gathered for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Palestinian FA chief is among a number of football officials who have found themselves unable to travel to the host country as the tournament gets underway, raising questions about access and inclusion for all member associations of FIFA.

The situation places the Palestinian Football Association in an awkward position during one of football's biggest global events, as its leadership is forced to follow proceedings from across the border rather than participating on the ground alongside peers from other nations.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico — making Mexico City a natural stopover point for officials who have been refused entry into the United States portion of the tournament.