Haiti's World Cup-bound midfielder, Woodensky Pierre, is facing uncertainty over his participation in the tournament due to a delayed US visa application. The 25-year-old, who plays for the New York Red Bulls in the US, is part of the 26-man squad selected by Haiti's national team for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Pierre's visa application is pending, amidst the ongoing travel ban imposed by the Trump administration in 2017. The ban restricts travel to the US for citizens of several countries, including Haiti, which has led to the delay in processing Pierre's visa application.
According to reports, Pierre is training alone while other team members, who play outside of Haiti, are preparing for the World Cup in Florida. Haiti's national team has been training in the US state, with the exception of Pierre, who is awaiting a decision on his visa application.
The situation highlights the complexities of international travel restrictions and the impact they can have on athletes, including those competing in major tournaments like the World Cup.
The UK Government has been monitoring the situation closely, with a spokesperson for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) stating that they are 'aware of the issue and are working with the relevant authorities to resolve the matter as quickly as possible'.
In response, the opposition Labour Party's Shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry, has called for the UK Government to 'do more to support' Pierre and other athletes affected by international travel restrictions.
Pierre's participation in the World Cup remains uncertain, with the tournament set to kick off on 20 November. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities of international travel restrictions and the need for clear and consistent policies to support athletes and other individuals affected by these restrictions.