Switzerland forward Breel Embolo has been granted approval to travel to the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Embolo had not travelled with his Swiss team-mates on Tuesday after his Esta authorisation was placed under review by US authorities.
An Esta is an automated system that determines whether an international visitor is eligible to enter the United States without a traditional visa.
The Switzerland football federation confirmed the positive outcome in an official statement released following a period of uncertainty for the player.
“We have just been informed that Breel Embolo’s visa has been approved,” the statement read, bringing relief to the Swiss camp ahead of their opening fixture.
“He will therefore be able to travel to the United States. He is expected to join the team on Friday evening.”
The review stemmed from a Swiss court ruling connected to an altercation Embolo was involved in in Basel in 2018.
The 29-year-old was convicted in 2023 of making multiple threats and handed a suspended fine following that incident in his home country.
After the verdict was upheld on appeal, Swiss media reported in April that the Stade Rennais forward had decided not to take the case to the Federal Court, making the judgement final.
Embolo attended an appointment at the US Embassy in Bern on Wednesday before receiving the clearance needed to join his colleagues.
The experienced forward has scored 23 goals in 85 appearances for Switzerland and featured in both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, making him a key figure in their squad.
Switzerland will be based in San Diego for the tournament, which is being held across Canada, Mexico and the United States this summer.
The Swiss open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Qatar on 13 June in Santa Clara, and Embolo will now be available to feature in that match.
Their Group B schedule also includes a clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina in Inglewood on 18 June before they face co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on 24 June.
