Zambia Drops US-Based Stars Over Trump-Era Immigration Fears

The Zambian women’s national team has withdrawn four US-based players from their upcoming international matches due to concerns over the United States’ immigration policies under President Trump, reports The Guardian. The decision affects Orlando Pride stars Barbra Banda, Prisca Chilufya, Grace Chanda, and Bay FC striker Rachael Kundananji — all key players for the Copper Queens.

With Zambia set to face Thailand and either China or Uzbekistan in a friendly tournament in China, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) cited “additional travel measures introduced by the new administration in the United States of America” as the reason for the withdrawals. The FAZ said the decision followed consultations with Zambia’s Washington-based diplomatic mission and the respective NWSL clubs.

FAZ general secretary Reuben Kamanga stated: “After working through the process instigated by recently introduced measures, it was decided that it is in the best interest of our players to skip this assignment. They will definitely be available for future call-ups, as they were for the last window against Malawi.”

The concerns come amid increased visa scrutiny, detentions, and deportations under the Trump administration. Reports have surfaced of foreign nationals denied reentry, including a French scientist stopped in Houston. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered mass visa reviews, boasting of over 300 revocations. The decision also intersects with Trump’s ongoing trade tensions with China, where the games are scheduled.