Archive · 19 Jul 2026
Spain's Capdevila denied US entry for World Cup final
Joan Capdevila, a former Spain defender, was denied a visa to enter the United States for the World Cup final.
He played in a match in Iran in 2016, which led to the denial.
Capdevila is asking President Trump and others for help so he can attend the final with his family.
He is upset because he wants to cheer on his teammates and share the experience with his kids who love soccer.
The final will be between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium.
Capdevila was part of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning team and wants to support his former teammates.
Joan Capdevila, a former Spain defender, was denied a US visa for the World Cup final.
His ESTA was denied due to his participation in an exhibition match in Iran in 2016.
Capdevila appealed to President Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for help.
He expressed his disappointment on social media, highlighting his excitement to attend with his family.
The US State Department has been contacted for comment.
- Who
- Joan Capdevila, former Spain defender
- What
- Visa denial for the World Cup final
- When
- Pending, World Cup final is on Sunday
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Denied ESTA due to participation in an exhibition match in Iran in 2016
Capdevila's Perspective
US Visa Policy
Visa Denial Reason
Capdevila's Perspective
Capdevila believes the denial is unfair as he wants to attend the World Cup final with his family.
US Visa Policy
The US denied his ESTA due to his participation in an exhibition match in Iran in 2016.
- Person Involved
- Joan Capdevila
- Occupation
- Former Spain defender
- Event
- World Cup final
- Reason for Denial
- Participation in an exhibition match in Iran in 2016
- Requested Assistance
- US President Donald Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
- World Cup Final Teams
- Spain vs. Argentina
- Final Location
- MetLife Stadium
Sources
Former Spain defender Joan Capdevila asks Trump for visa help for World Cup final - Telegraph India
‘I can’t believe this’: Former Spain World Cup winner denied US entry over decade-old ‘Iran match’
FIFA World Cup 2026: Capdevila seeks Trump's help after Iran-linked ESTA rejection
