Trump Visa Ban Exempts Select Sporting Events—but Broad Restrictions Still Strangle American Freedom

The Trump administration’s recent clarification on its extensive visa ban reveals a telling balancing act: allowing certain athletes and coaches to enter the United States for 'major sporting events' while maintaining harsh travel restrictions on nearly 40 countries. This selective exemption raises critical concerns about fairness, national security priorities, and America’s global stance. Who Benefits—and Who Remains Barred? In a directive sent to U.S. embassies worldwide, the State Department carved out exceptions for athletes, coaches, and support staff attending events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games—as well as competitions endorsed by high-profile professional and collegiate leagues...