Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was left behind at the 11th hour as his world cup teammates travelled to the U.S. on Tuesday after his ESTA authorisation was placed under review, the Swiss federation said.

Breel Embolo’s travel authorization was placed under review just hours before the team was scheduled to leave for the U.S. for the World Cup. The 6-foot-2 forward, 29, was convicted in 2023 for making threats to another player years earlier when he was 21. He requested an appeal in September 2025, but the conviction was not overturned.

Embolo has travelled to the U.S. after the conviction, even scoring a goal against the U.S. men’s national team in a victorious 4-0 match in Tennessee.

The Swiss team, however, was optimistic that he will be able to make it in time for the World Cup. “One seat empty, but not for long see you soon, @breelembolo97.”

The review raises legal concerns for other players with criminal records and teams of countries in conflict with the U.S. The Iranian team is also struggling with visa approval for its players and staff members and has moved its practice facility to Mexico.