Earthquake strikes England's World Cup camp as African referee denied US entry

England’s World Cup 2026 camp was shaken — literally — after an earthquake struck near their base in the United States, adding an unwelcome distraction to the squad’s preparations for the tournament. The seismic event is the latest disruption to hit the Three Lions ahead of the competition being co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Separately, a significant off-field controversy has emerged after an African referee was refused entry into the United States, raising questions about visa and immigration procedures surrounding the tournament’s officiating appointments. The incident has drawn attention to broader logistical and political concerns affecting participants travelling to the host nation.

The two developments compound what has already been a complex build-up to a World Cup that carries enormous expectations for multiple competing nations. England, among the tournament favourites, will be hoping the disruptions do not derail their preparations as the competition draws closer.

Further details on the extent of the earthquake’s impact on England’s training facilities, as well as the identity of the referee affected and the official response from FIFA and US authorities, are expected to emerge in the coming hours.