Published: July 17, 2026
MONROVIA — The Liberian government has officially canceled the Lone Star’s international friendly against Minnesota United II after the United States denied visas to several members of the national team and official delegation.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports announced that it had invoked the Force Majeure clause in its Match Appearance Agreement with Strengthening African Resilience Towards Excellence (SARX), terminating arrangements for the July 26, 2026, fixture in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
In a formal communication, Minister Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah said the decision followed extensive efforts by the ministry, the Liberia Football Association (LFA) and their partners to secure travel documents for the delegation. However, the visa denials made it impossible for Liberia to assemble the required delegation and meet its contractual obligations before the scheduled match.
The ministry said that with less than two weeks remaining before kickoff, there was no realistic opportunity to obtain alternative visas, organize a representative national team and complete the necessary travel arrangements.
As a result, the government invoked Article XII of the Match Appearance Agreement, which covers Force Majeure. The clause relieves both parties of liability when unforeseen events or government actions beyond their control prevent or delay the fulfillment of contractual obligations.
According to the ministry, the agreement specifically recognizes government actions as Force Majeure events and provides that neither party shall be held liable for damages or expenses if a match is canceled or delayed under such circumstances.
The ministry stressed that the cancellation was not due to negligence or unwillingness by the government, the LFA or the Lone Star, but was caused entirely by circumstances beyond their control.
Despite the setback, the ministry thanked SARX for its efforts to promote international sporting cooperation and expressed hope that both parties could revisit plans for a future international friendly once the travel challenges are resolved.
“The Ministry of Youth and Sports remains committed to expanding international partnerships that advance sports development, strengthen Liberia’s global sporting engagement, and create meaningful opportunities for Liberian athletes,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, SARX also confirmed the cancellation of the match, citing the U.S. visa denials as the reason the fixture could no longer proceed.
The Minnesota-based nonprofit said months of planning had gone into organizing the event, which was intended to celebrate Liberia’s 179th Independence Day while showcasing Liberian football on an international stage.
“We are deeply disappointed by this outcome,” SARX Executive Director Wynfred Russell said. “This event represented more than a football match; it was an opportunity to celebrate Liberia’s independence, showcase Liberian talent on a global stage, strengthen ties with the Diaspora, and bring communities together through the power of sports.”
SARX thanked Minnesota United FC, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia Football Association, sponsors, volunteers and supporters who helped organize the event, including thousands of fans who had already purchased tickets.
Although the match has been canceled, the organization said it remains committed to strengthening communities through sports, education and cultural engagement and hopes Liberia’s national team will have another opportunity to compete in Minnesota under more favorable circumstances.
SARX is a Brooklyn Park, Minnesota-based nonprofit organization that promotes health, education and empowerment within African immigrant communities across the state.
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