Spain’s FIFA World Cup-winning legend Joan Capdevila has revealed that he was denied entry into the United States ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final, preventing him from attending Spain’s showdown against Argentina despite travelling to support La Roja.
Spain will face defending champions Argentina in the World Cup final on 20 July at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), one of the most anticipated fixtures in world football. However, one of Spain’s own World Cup champions will be forced to watch from afar.
Speaking to Spanish outlet COPE, Capdevila said U.S. immigration authorities refused to allow him into the country despite informing officials that he was travelling to watch the World Cup final with his children.
The former left-back, who helped Spain lift their historic first World Cup title in South Africa in 2010, described the situation as both unexpected and deeply disappointing.
Following the incident, Capdevila took to social media to publicly appeal to United States President Donald Trump for assistance.
“I need your help, @realDonaldTrump! They told me I can’t attend the World Cup final with my children because my documents have been rejected.”
Me acaban de decir que no puedo viajar a la final con mis hijos porque me han denegado el ESTA 😭
¿Alguien me puede ayudar con esto? No sabéis la ilusión que me hacía poder estar allí con todos mis compañeros de 2010 y con este equipo… pic.twitter.com/VH9wakzaH1
Despite the public appeal, there was no breakthrough, and Capdevila remained unable to enter the United States.
Capdevila believes the decision may be linked to his visit to Iran in 2016, when he participated in an exhibition football match in Tehran.
The former Spain international featured as part of a La Liga Legends team against an Iranian All-Star squad in a friendly event. Given the current diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran, Capdevila suspects that trip may have influenced the immigration decision.
He also sought assistance from the Spanish government, but despite multiple efforts, his request to enter the United States was ultimately unsuccessful.
The timing could hardly be more painful for Capdevila, who was hoping to witness Spain compete for another World Cup crown 16 years after being part of the legendary squad that triumphed in South Africa.
Luis de la Fuente’s side will now attempt to dethrone defending champions Argentina in Sunday’s blockbuster final, but one of Spain’s greatest World Cup heroes will be cheering them on from outside the United States.
