Ministry of Youth & Sports Invokes Force Majeure, Terminates Match Agreement Following U.S. Visa Denials
Paynesville, Liberia – July 15, 2026
The Ministry of Youth & Sports has formally invoked the Force Majeure provisions of its Match Appearance Agreement with Strengthening African Resilience Towards Excellence (SARX), resulting in the termination of arrangements for the Liberia Lone Star National Team to participate in the international friendly scheduled for July 26, 2026, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States.
In a formal communication issued by Minister Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah, the Ministry explained that the decision followed exhaustive efforts by the Ministry, the Liberia Football Association (LFA), and their partners to facilitate the team’s participation. Despite those efforts, members of the Liberian national team and the official delegation were denied United States visas, making it impossible to field the required delegation and fulfill the contractual obligations within the agreed timeframe.
The Ministry noted that with less than two weeks remaining before the scheduled fixture, there was no reasonable opportunity to secure alternative visa arrangements, assemble a representative national team, and complete all necessary travel requirements before the contractual deadline.
Consequently, the Ministry invoked Article XII of the Match Appearance Agreement, the Force Majeure clause, which relieves parties of liability where an unforeseen event or governmental action beyond their reasonable control wholly or partially prevents or delays the performance of contractual obligations. The Ministry emphasized that the provision specifically recognizes governmental actions and orders as Force Majeure events and further provides that neither party shall be liable for damages or expenses where a match is cancelled or delayed because of such circumstances.
The Ministry stressed that the termination was not occasioned by any unwillingness, negligence, or failure on the part of the Ministry of Youth & Sports, the Liberia Football Association, or the Liberia Lone Star National Team. Rather, it resulted entirely from circumstances beyond the reasonable control of all parties, which rendered performance impossible within the contractual timeframe. While expressing deep regret over the cancellation, the Ministry conveyed its sincere appreciation to SARX for its commitment to promoting international sporting cooperation and creating opportunities for Liberia’s national team.
It expressed optimism that once the prevailing impediments are resolved, both institutions can revisit discussions on organizing a future international fixture under more favorable circumstances. The Ministry of Youth & Sports remains committed to expanding international partnerships that advance sports development, strengthen Liberia’s global sporting engagement, and create meaningful opportunities for Liberian athletes.
P. Oxford Brown
Director of Press & Public Affairs
Ministry of Youth & Sports
