The government of the United States denied visas this Thursday to the Cuban women's volleyball team to attend the NORCECA Final Four, to be held in Puerto Rico from July 16 to 21.
According to a statement from the Cuban Volleyball Federation, the visas were denied at the U.S. consular office in Havana to all members of the delegation.
The 12 athletes, two coaches, one referee and a team manager will not attend the event in Manatí, Puerto Rico.
Cuban nationals "were notified at that diplomatic office, to which the application was submitted in accordance with the established deadlines for such a process," stated in the official note the Cuban Volleyball Federation, which described the situation as "an unfair and discriminatory position."
"This action, contrary to the commitments inherent to the responsibilities assumed by host countries of international sporting events, hinders Cuba's participation in a competition that is part of the qualification process for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo and counts towards the NORCECA and global rankings," they wrote.
Instead of Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago is expected to complete the group of four teams, maintaining the tournament format.
The federation also expressed concern arising from the denials, as the situation, they opined, "increases uncertainties regarding what may happen in the future regarding the behavior of the country that will host the 2028 Olympic Games."
It is not the only incident related to sports delegations from the island. Days ago, the Cuban men's volleyball team faced issues with visa processing, which made it difficult for all players to travel to Europe to participate in the second week of the Nations League, although they were ultimately able to attend.
The United States is imposing visa restrictions on Cuban officials and representatives as part of a broader policy of sanctions and immigration restrictions aimed at pressuring the Cuban regime. This policy has impacted various sectors, including sports, limiting Cuba's participation in international events held in U.S. territory.
The restrictions have prevented Cuban athletes from participating in key international competitions, such as the World Master Indoor Athletics Championship and the qualifying event for the Fiba AmeriCup 2025. This has led to the automatic elimination of Cuban teams and has limited their international visibility, impacting the development of sports on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Visa Denial for the Cuban Women's Volleyball Team
Why did the United States deny visas to the Cuban women's volleyball team?
The United States denied visas to the Cuban team as part of a broader policy of sanctions and immigration restrictions aimed at pressuring the Cuban regime. This policy has impacted various sectors, including sports, limiting Cuba's participation in international events organized in U.S. territory.
What impact does the visa denial have on the Cuban volleyball team?
The denial of visas prevents the women's volleyball team from participating in the NORCECA Final Four in Puerto Rico, impacting their qualification for the Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo 2026 and their standings in both the NORCECA and world rankings. Furthermore, it creates uncertainty regarding future participation in international sports events.
Has something similar happened with other Cuban sports teams?
Yes, this is not the first time. The men's volleyball team from Cuba has also recently faced visa issues, which hindered their full participation in the Nations League. Other teams, such as the basketball team, have encountered similar situations, impacting their participation in key international competitions.
What has the Cuban Volleyball Federation said about the situation?
The Cuban Volleyball Federation described the visa denial as "an unfair and discriminatory position." They argue that this measure contravenes the commitments of host countries for international sporting events and hinders Cuba's participation in important competitions for its sporting development.
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