Mondial du Football : l´Afrique dans les stades, ses supporters aux frontières.(par F. WADE)
For once, the FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, seems to have to comply with the demands of the American administration.
After numerous difficulties related to obtaining visas, African players, their technical staff and official delegations were finally able to set foot on American soil, sometimes at the cost of control procedures deemed excessive and humiliating in some airports.
This World Cup began with unequal opportunities. For some nations, the kickoff took place in stadiums; for others, it was in embassies, consulates, and US government offices. Before even facing an opponent on the field, they had to play an initial administrative match simply to earn the right to participate in the global football festival.
Their supporters, however, were largely left stranded. Visa restrictions, entry refusals, and dissuasive administrative measures significantly reduced travel options. FIFA seems to be accepting this situation, despite the criticism it has generated. Other delegations also faced administrative obstacles.
The Iranian team, in particular, had to deal with numerous difficulties, as some of its leaders were unable to make the trip.
The African and Iranian teams are therefore likely to play in an unusual atmosphere, almost as if in an empty stadium, while their opponents will benefit from a much more visible presence in the stands. They will inevitably miss the fervor, the chants, and the support of their fans.
In this context, it would be desirable for African communities established in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the few fans who managed to make the trip, to organize themselves to support all the African teams participating in the competition. Beyond national affiliations, the aim is to foster continental solidarity in the stands.
This solidarity could also extend to the Iranian team. As their country faces the ordeal of war and its accompanying tensions, its players will carry on their shoulders far more than a simple sporting challenge. African fans, like all those who remain committed to the values of justice, peace, and fraternity among peoples, could show their support through their cheers. Football does not end conflicts, but it can remind us that nations are never defined solely by the crises that afflict them.
An exception will naturally be made when two African teams face each other: each will then wear the colors of their home country. But, for the rest of the competition, Africa would benefit from speaking with one voice in the stands.
Because Africa must not only be present on the field; it must be present in the stands.
Saint-Louis, June 12, 2026
F. WADE
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