Former World Cup Champion Joan Capdevila Seeks Presidential Assistance After Travel Authorization Rejection

World Cup winner Capdevila appeals to Trump – Joan Capdevila, the celebrated Spanish footballer who lifted the World Cup trophy in 2010, has publicly appealed to President Donald Trump following the rejection of his travel permit to enter the United States. The 48-year-old former full-back was preparing to attend Sunday’s highly anticipated World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium when his plans were unexpectedly disrupted.

A Plea for Help on Social Media

Capdevila took to the social media platform X on Friday to voice his frustration and request assistance. The retired defender, who was instrumental in Spain’s historic victory over the Netherlands in the 2010 final, had been eagerly anticipating reuniting with his former teammates and witnessing Spain’s second World Cup final appearance in their nation’s history.

“I NEED HELP @realDonaldTrump!” Capdevila wrote in his post. “They just told me that I can’t travel to the final with my kids because my ESTA has been denied.”

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is the digital platform that allows visitors from visa-exempt countries to travel to the United States for stays of up to 90 days without obtaining a traditional visa. According to Capdevila, his application through this system was unexpectedly rejected, leaving him unable to join his family for what would have been a memorable sporting occasion.

Expressing Disbelief and Gratitude

The former Villarreal and Deportivo La Coruña defender continued his social media appeal, expressing both his excitement and disappointment. He emphasized how meaningful this moment would be for him and his children, who share his passion for football.

“Can anyone help me with this? You have no idea how excited I was to be there with all my 2010 team-mates and this team to cheer them on,” Capdevila explained. “I can’t believe they’re not letting me into the USA… and that I’ll miss a moment like this with my kids who love soccer so much.”

He concluded his message by offering his gratitude to anyone who could assist in resolving the situation, stating that he would remain thankful forever for any help provided.

Additional Appeals and Suspected Cause

Beyond reaching out to President Trump, Capdevila also contacted Marco Rubio, who serves as the US Secretary of State, requesting intervention in his case. He additionally tagged the Spanish government’s ministry of sport in his social media posts, hoping for diplomatic support.

In a subsequent interview with Spanish radio station COPE, Capdevila shared his theory regarding the possible reason for his travel authorization denial. He believes the rejection may be connected to a match he participated in during 2016 in Iran. The 2008 European Championship winner was among a group of La Liga legends who competed against an Iranian all-star team in Tehran during that exhibition fixture.

Not an Isolated Incident

Capdevila’s situation mirrors that of Somali referee Omar Artan, who was also prevented from entering the United States for the World Cup. The 2025 CAF men’s referee of the year was removed from his officiating duties after arriving at Miami International Airport on June 8. US authorities cited his “association with suspected members of terror organisations” as the basis for his entry refusal.

The Stage Is Set for a Historic Final

Sunday’s championship match represents a unique occasion, pitting the European champions against the Copa America winners for the first time in World Cup history. Spain secured their place in only their second-ever final by defeating France 2-0 in Dallas on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Argentina, the three-time World Cup champions and reigning titleholders, advanced to their second consecutive final after mounting a dramatic late comeback to overcome England 2-1 on Wednesday.

As Capdevila awaits a resolution to his travel predicament, football fans worldwide are watching to see whether the former World Cup winner will be able to celebrate Spain’s potential triumph alongside his family and former teammates in New Jersey.