As teams leave their home nations and make their way to the United States and Mexico, there have been some great send-offs and arrivals for the World Cup participants. While many have been welcomed with great hospitality, we have also seen high security measures
Norway Left as Vikings
Team Norway geared up for the 2026 World Cup with a Viking theme. Last week, the team members shared a series of photos showcasing them in full battle regalia. The Norway squad posed in front of three Viking longships, reminiscent of those used by historical raiders along the coast of England during the early Middle Ages.
Spain Received a Traditional Welcome
The Spanish national team received a special celebration in Puebla ahead of their pre World Cup friendly vs. Peru. A traditional mariachi band was there on arrival to give Spain an open-arms welcome to the host nation. The players expressed their gratitude for the warm reception, which has been a common theme across Mexico
Strict Security Measures for Some
A viral video showing the Senegalese national team delegation in the United States sparked immediate international backlash over the intense airport security protocols. The Senegal National Team players and staff faced lengthy, hyper-intensive screening and luggage searches while at the airport. The footage has triggered widespread condemnation across the footballing world, with many believing the Senegalese treatment was targeted.
Another video that went viral featured the Uzbekistan national team players being thoroughly searched when they arrived in New York. The strict security measures were implemented at the stadium gates ahead of their warm-up match against the Netherlands.
