Soccer Star Denied Entry Over Visa Issues

By The Moscow Times

Nov. 20, 2012

A Spanish soccer star was denied entry at passport control at Moscow's Vnukovo Airport over the weekend, two days before a crucial European game against a Russian team, Spanish media reported.

According to online sports portal Sport.es, Barcelona FC midfielder Cesc Fabregas was denied entry to Russia on Sunday evening for not having a visa.

The Spanish sports portal reported that Fabregas has two passports and that he grabbed the wrong one before setting out for his trip to Moscow.

Fabregas was forced to spend Sunday night at the airport while his team mates headed to their hotel for a good night's rest, according to Sport.es.

On Monday, representatives from Barcelona were still trying to come to an agreement with visa authorities, with Fabregas expected to feature in Tuesday's Champions League clash against Spartak Moscow at the capital's Luzhniki Stadium.

For Barcelona, the result in Moscow could decide whether they top their four-team group, while Spartak Moscow are currently languishing in last place.

Related articles:

… we have a small favor to ask.

As you may have heard, The Moscow Times, an independent news source for over 30 years, has been unjustly branded as a "foreign agent" by the Russian government. This blatant attempt to silence our voice is a direct assault on the integrity of journalism and the values we hold dear.

We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. Our commitment to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on Russia remains unshaken. But we need your help to continue our critical mission.

Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just 2. It's quick to set up, and you can be confident that you're making a significant impact every month by supporting open, independent journalism. Thank you.

Continue