Why Is the US Denying Visas to Cuban Athletes and Officials?
The Cuban Olympic Committee accuses the US of denying visas to Cuban officials and athletes, raising concerns over upcoming major sports events in the US, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Q1: Which Cuban officials were denied travel documents?
A: The COC's president, vice-president, and secretary general were excluded from meetings in Miami and Puerto Rico due to visa refusals.
Q2: How has this visa denial affected Cuban athletes?
A: Fourteen Cuban athletes missed an athletics championship in Florida, and the men's basketball team missed the FIBA AmeriCup in Puerto Rico.
Q3: What reasons does the Cuban Olympic Committee give for the visa refusals?
A: The committee blames an 'arbitrary and politically-motivated' US policy against Cuba, linked to Washington's aggressive stance towards the island.
Q4: How have US-Cuba relations evolved under President Trump?
A: Relations worsened, with Cuba re-listed as a 'terrorism' sponsor, increased deportations, and stricter visa policies citing alleged anti-Semitism or hostility towards the US.
Q5: Has the US government addressed concerns about future sporting events?
A: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured that visa policies will not affect the 2026 FIFA World Cup or 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
(With inputs from AFP)
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