Switzerland forward Breel Embolo did not travel with the World Cup squad to the United States on Tuesday after his ESTA authorization was placed under review, the Swiss federation announced. The issue stems from a 2018 altercation in Basel that led to a Swiss court ruling finalized nine months ago.
Legal Background
The Stade Rennais striker was convicted in 2023 of making multiple threats and received a suspended fine. The verdict was upheld on appeal after judges rejected his account of the incident. Swiss media reported in April that Embolo chose not to take the case to the Federal Court, making the judgment final.
Federation Statement
“Unfortunately, Breel Embolo is currently unable to travel to the United States with the team,” the Swiss federation said in a statement. “His ESTA authorization had been approved until this morning. However, at 10:30 a.m., we were informed that his ESTA application had been placed under further review.” The federation added they are in contact with authorities and expect Embolo to join the team later Tuesday or travel on Wednesday.
A team spokesperson noted that Switzerland had previously traveled to the U.S. in June 2025 to play Mexico and the U.S., and Embolo had been allowed entry at that time.
World Cup Implications
Switzerland is in World Cup Group B with co-hosts Canada, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Qatar. Their opening match is on June 12 in Toronto against Canada.
