Donald Trump's Olympics ban explained as 12 countries denied entry to USA

Donald Trump has signed a controversial travel ban that could cause disruption across the sporting world, as the United States prepare to host several major international competitions.

The order blocks entry from 12 countries and imposes partial restrictions on seven more, prompting concerns about how upcoming global events will be affected.

First on the calendar is the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on 14 June. That will be followed by the 2026 FIFA World Cup next summer, which they will co-host alongside Canada and Mexico.

And just two years later, they will host the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

There are exemptions for 'athletes or members of athletic teams, including coaches and support staff and athletes traveling for the World Cup, Olympics or other sporting events.'

However, while athletes will still be able to take part, they are unlikely to be joined by their friends or extended family.

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Why has Donald Trump introduced a travel ban?

In his order, the 78-year-old said: "I must act to protect the national security and national interest of the United States and its people."

In a video posted to Truth Social, he referenced the recent attack on a pro-Israel rally in Colorado, which had 'underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted'.

He claimed that 'millions and millions of these illegals who should not be in our country'.

According to the BBC, the man accused of the attack is an Egyptian national; however, Egypt is not one of the countries listed in the ban.

What countries have been banned from the USA?

The ban come into effect on Monday, 9 June. Citizens from the following 12 countries will be barred from entering the US:

• Afghanistan
• Myanmar
• Chad
• Congo-Brazzaville
• Equatorial Guinea
• Eritrea
• Haiti
• Iran
• Libya
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Yemen

Iran, who have already qualified for the World Cup, are still expected to compete under the sporting exemptions.

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What countries will face a partial travel ban?

An additional seven countries will be hit by a partial restriction into the United States:

• Burundi
• Cuba
• Laos
• Sierra Leone
• Togo
• Turkmenistan
• Venezuela

How does the ban apply to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?

Donald Trump was inaugurated on January 20 2025. Under the US Constitution, presidential terms last four years, meaning he will still be in office in the summer of 2028.

While athletes should still be able to compete at the Games, the restrictions mean many will be forced to leave most of their friends and family at home.