The Senegal Football Federation has issued a statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the team's arrival in the United States for the World Cup, after footage emerged online appearing to show players and staff being searched on an airport tarmac.
Footage sparks online criticism
The videos prompted widespread criticism on social media, with former England striker and pundit Ian Wright among those who commented on the footage. The incident came at a similar time to when Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour interview at border control.
Senegal's clarification
Senegal have moved to explain the situation, stating that the checks took place before the team's arrival in San Antonio and were pre-arranged. A statement from the federation read: "Following the circulation on social media of a video showing players and staff members of the Senegal national team undergoing a security check on an airport tarmac, we wish to provide the following clarifications in order to avoid any erroneous interpretation."
"Contrary to certain reported information, this check did not take place upon the team's arrival in San Antonio, but rather at the time of boarding at Raleigh airport on Sunday, June 7, 2026, before the flight's departure.
"As part of the logistical organisation of the trip, the bus carrying the national team left the hotel in Raleigh to go directly onto the airport tarmac. This procedure allowed the players and staff members to complete all security and police checks directly at the foot of the aircraft, without having to pass through the usual areas of the terminal and the boarding lounges.
"This arrangement was essentially aimed at optimising the travel time of the delegation and facilitating its boarding on the private flight to San Antonio.
"We wish to emphasise that this procedure took place in compliance with the airport security rules in force and that no particular incident was reported. The private flight connecting Raleigh to San Antonio took place under excellent conditions, and the entire delegation arrived at its destination normally."
Recent match and group stage
Senegal were in action in the early hours of the morning, drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia. The game saw Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson receive a red card. The nation takes on France, Norway and Iraq in their group stage games.
