Switzerland's World Cup squad departed for the United States on Tuesday without Breel Embolo because the striker's Esta authorization is now under review.

The examination of Embolo's Esta, which is an automated process assessing eligibility for US entry without a visa, stems from a Swiss court decision regarding an incident involving Embolo in Basel back in 2018.

At 29 years old, the player with 23 goals from 85 international appearances and experience in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, received a conviction in 2023 for issuing several threats, resulting in a suspended fine.

Following the confirmation of the ruling on appeal, reports from Swiss outlets in April indicated that the Rennes forward opted against appealing further to the Federal Court, finalizing the decision.

"Regrettably, Breel Embolo cannot currently accompany the team to the United States," stated the Swiss football federation.

"His Esta had received approval up until this morning. Yet at 10:30am, notification arrived that the application requires additional examination.

"We remain in touch with the appropriate officials and anticipate Breel will reunite with the squad either later today or upon arrival tomorrow."

Embolo had previously gained entry to the US in June 2025 for exhibition games versus Mexico and the United States.

Tuesday afternoon saw the Swiss national team's Instagram share an image of the squad aboard the aircraft, captioned: "One seat empty, but not for long. See you soon Breel Embolo."

The Swiss side, based in San Diego for the World Cup, opens their group stage on June 13 versus Qatar in Santa Clara, followed by matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Inglewood and hosts Canada in Vancouver.