A Scottish soccer enthusiast, Kenny Smith, has been left deeply disappointed as his opportunity to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S. was abruptly revoked. Smith, a musician and business owner from Inverness, was initially set to travel to the U.S. and witness Scotland compete in the tournament for the first time since 1998. However, his electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) status abruptly changed from approved to ‘Travel Not Authorized.’
During an interview with Newsweek, Smith expressed his heartache over missing what he described as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” His ESTA, previously approved and valid until 2027, was unexpectedly revoked last Wednesday. This forced him into an urgent and costly visa application process. Smith is not alone, as several Scottish fans have faced similar challenges trying to attend the tournament.
Smith voiced his frustration, hoping that the U.S. would be more welcoming to Scottish fans, especially given former President Donald Trump’s Scottish connections. Smith’s family hails from Scotland’s Western Isles, and he expected a warmer reception. He remarked, “We’ve welcomed Donald Trump and every American with open arms. The hospitality should be returned swiftly.”
Scottish Fans Facing Travel Woes
The revocation of travel permissions for Scottish fans, collectively known as the “Tartan Army,” has caused distress. Fans had been eagerly awaiting Scotland’s first match against Haiti. In response, Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, has reached out to U.S. agencies to address the issue.
Michael Wright, another Scottish fan, shared his experience with the BBC. His ESTA status changed from “approved” to “pending” and finally to “travel not authorized” just an hour before his flight. Meanwhile, Newsweek contacted the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the State Department for comments on the issue.
No Clear Reasons Provided
According to DHS guidelines, ESTAs can be denied or revoked due to various reasons tied to eligibility or application inconsistencies, such as past criminal activities or overstaying a past ESTA. A DHS spokesperson explained that the Trump administration had enforced stricter immigration laws. Smith, however, stated he has no criminal history and was given no explanation for the change in his status.
Smith has spent hundreds of pounds and countless stressful hours attempting to secure a visa appointment. His local Member of Parliament intervened to expedite the process, securing an appointment for Tuesday in London. Despite these efforts, Smith will miss Scotland’s opening game against Haiti.
Smith estimates his trip cost him almost £20,000 (around $26,700), with some costs non-recoverable due to non-refundable bookings and travel insurance not covering visa issues. “The money’s not the big factor. Missing the first game is heartbreaking,” Smith said, adding that the experience left him “absolutely devastated.”
Calls for a U.S. Apology
Smith, reflecting on the complications surrounding this year’s World Cup, argues that the U.S. should apologize to affected fans. “Someone has to say, ‘It was our fault. We’re really sorry,’” he said, emphasizing the need for acknowledgment and potential reimbursement.
Scottish government efforts to address the problem are ongoing, with local Member of Parliament, Jamie Stone, actively involved. Stone raised the issue during First Minister’s Questions in parliament, and First Minister Swinney expressed understanding and a commitment to resolving the matter.
Stone emphasized the unifying power of football, expressing disappointment at the situation. He hopes for cooperation between U.S., UK, and Scottish governments to resolve the issue promptly, allowing fans to attend the games as planned.