GB marathon runner Chris Thompson’s visa not through in time - won’t be in Sunday’s race

I like how they always find a facial expression to match the mood of the news.

Seriously how is this even possible?

Can't Brits come to the US without a visa? Should he just say he's comign on vacation?

This says you can get a visa waiver in 23 minutes. What am I missing?

I got one instantly for Boston,the only issue would be if he had a criminal record or had overstayed a previous ESTA.

Not buying this reason for a minute.

Drunk driving, I'd bet

"If you are an amateur athlete or a member of a group of athletes competing
in an athletic event for which you will receive no payment, other than
incidental expenses, you may be eligible for a B-2 visa.
Please note: An amateur is someone who normally performs without
remuneration (other than an allotment for expenses). An athlete who is
normally compensated for performing cannot qualify for a B-2 visa even
if they do not make a living at performing."

uk.usembassy.gov

Tourism & Visitor

flickcs

B-2 visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons traveling to United States temporarily for tourism, pleasure or visiting. The following are

Open link

My reading is that a professional athlete would need a P-1 visa even for an amateur competition. Whereas a purely amateur athlete would be fine on the ESTA visa waiver.