World Cup winner Capdevila appeals to Trump after US travel permit denied
Former Spanish footballer Joan Capdevila has publicly appealed to Donald Trump for assistance after his US travel permit was denied. Capdevila believes the rejection is linked to a 2016 match he played in Iran, preventing him from attending the World Cup final.
Why it matters
It highlights the complexities and potential diplomatic hurdles of international travel regulations for high-profile individuals during major global sporting events.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Joan Capdevila (left) has reached out to President Donald Trump for help
Former Spain international Joan Capdevila has made a plea to US President Donald Trump for help after he says he was denied a travel permit to enter the United States before Sunday's World Cup final.
Capdevila, 48, was part of the Spain team that defeated the Netherlands to win the 2010 World Cup final.
The retired full-back was hoping to reunite with his former team-mates and watch Spain's second World Cup final appearance when they take on Argentina at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday (20:00 BST).
Visitors who want to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without a visa need to apply to the country's Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which Capdevila says has been denied.
"I NEED HELP @realDonaldTrump!" Capdevila posted on X on Friday.
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