The Senegal Football Federation has issued a statement addressing the controversy surrounding their arrival in the USA ahead of the World Cup. Footage circulated on social media appeared to show players and staff being screened and searched on the airport tarmac. The clips sparked a wave of condemnation online, with former England striker and television pundit Ian Wright among those to voice their disapproval.
The incident coincided with the case of Somali referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the country following an 11-hour interview at border control.
Senegal have since moved to set the record straight, confirming that the security checks actually took place prior to the team's arrival in San Antonio and had been arranged in advance.
"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," the statement read.
"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."
Senegal were in action during the early hours of the morning, drawing 0-0 with Saudi Arabia. The match saw Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson sent off. The African nation face France, Norway and Iraq in their group stage fixtures.
