Argentina team faces U.S. security checks, Messi reacts 

Several national teams including some of football’s biggest stars have reportedly been subjected to unusually strict security screenings in the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparking debate on social media.

Videos circulating online show the national teams of Senegal, Uzbekistan and Germany undergoing extensive security checks at U.S. airports. Meanwhile, the teams of Iraq and Iran reportedly faced immigration issues, with some players questioned for hours and several support staff members allegedly deported.

The first viral video showed Senegal’s players dressed in their team kits standing beside their luggage on the airport tarmac while security officials carried out inspections before they were allowed to enter the terminal.

Similarly, Uzbekistan’s squad underwent screening with sniffer dogs and advanced security equipment upon arriving for a friendly match against the Netherlands. Germany’s national team also faced strict immigration checks before traveling to Toronto for an important match against Ivory Coast.

Now, defending champions Argentina have experienced similar treatment. Before boarding their flight, the entire squad including superstar Lionel Messi was subjected to thorough security screening.

Messi initially appeared surprised by the process but soon laughed at the situation. Social media users also expressed surprise that even a player of Messi’s global stature had to undergo such extensive security checks.