BROOKLYN PARK, Minnesota – July 15, 2026 – Strengthening African Resilience towards Excellence (SARX) has announced the cancellation of the highly anticipated international friendly between Liberia’s Lone Star National Football Team and Minnesota United FC, citing the denial of U.S. entry visas to several key members of the Liberian delegation.
The match, which was scheduled for July 26, 2026, at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota, was expected to coincide with Liberia’s 179th Independence Day celebrations and serve as a historic sporting event connecting Liberia with one of the largest Liberian diaspora communities in the United States.
In a statement issued Wednesday, SARX said the decision followed months of planning and extensive collaboration among organizers, Minnesota United FC, Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia Football Association (LFA), sponsors, volunteers, and community partners. However, the organization said the visa setbacks made it impossible to complete the necessary travel arrangements in time for the fixture.
“We are deeply disappointed by this outcome,” said SARX Executive Director Wynfred Russell. “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 extended appreciation to Minnesota United FC, Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia Football Association, sponsors, volunteers, and the many individuals who dedicated their time, energy, and resources to organizing the event.
The organization also thanked the thousands of supporters who purchased tickets and made plans to attend the international friendly.
Despite the cancellation, SARX reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening communities through sports, education, and cultural engagement. The nonprofit expressed optimism that future opportunities would allow Liberia’s national team to compete in Minnesota under more favorable circumstances.
The cancellation follows reports that the majority of Liberia’s traveling delegation was denied U.S. visas, leaving organizers unable to field the national team for the scheduled match. Liberia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has also confirmed that it invoked the Force Majeure provisions of its Match Appearance Agreement because the visa denials prevented the fulfillment of contractual obligations for the fixture.
SARX, a Brooklyn Park-based nonprofit organization, focuses on promoting health, education, and empowerment within African immigrant communities across Minnesota.
