Fabio Cannavaro Slams “Isolating” U.S. Border Checks on Uzbekistan World Cup Squad
The Uzbekistan national football team faced an unexpectedly hostile reception upon their arrival in the United States, raising fresh concerns over the strict border protocols being enforced ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Managed by Italy’s legendary World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro, the squad touched down in New York to prepare for a warm-up friendly match against the Netherlands. However, their arrival was quickly overshadowed by severe security measures that left the team feeling singled out by U.S. customs officials.
According to Cannavaro, the entire travelling contingent was subjected to a highly unusual and intense level of scrutiny at the airport.
Players and staff were forced to undergo detailed physical pat-downs and pass through rigorous metal detectors before being cleared. Furthermore, U.S. border authorities deployed drug-sniffing dogs to thoroughly sweep the team members and their luggage.
😳🐕REGISTRO SUPER ESTRICTO HASTA CON PERROS
— ESPN Centroamérica (@ESPN_CENAM) June 8, 2026
Así fue el protocolo de seguridad con la Selección de Uzbekistán previo al amistoso contra Países Bajos en Estados Unidos.🇺🇿 pic.twitter.com/D1SzMEYZcP
Cannavaro questions «isolating» treatment
The manager publicly condemned the heavy-handed operation and questioned the necessity of subjecting professional athletes to such extreme security protocols.
Cannavaro expressed deep frustration over the ordeal, noting that his squad appeared to be the only group subjected to such thorough inspections. He described the process as deeply isolating for his players, who were simply arriving to participate in a sporting event.
The incident involving the Uzbekistan team is part of a growing wave of criticism directed at the United States regarding its stringent immigration and border policies in the lead-up to the global tournament.
With the World Cup set to heavily feature matches across American soil, international delegations are increasingly concerned about how foreign players, officials and fans will be treated upon entering the country.
