Hugo Calderano, the current number 3 of the worldwide table tennis ranking, will not be able to compete in the Grand Smash de Las Vegas in the United States. The Brazilian did not obtain his authorization to enter the country in time to participate in the tournament, one of the main of the sport, which starts this Friday (4). The reason, according to his advisory, was a trip to Cuba in 2023.
“It is frustrating to be out of one of the most important competitions of the season because of my control, especially from such positive results,” said the Brazilian.
In a great phase in his career, with the title of the World Cup and, more recently, the silver medal in the World Cup, the athlete has Portuguese citizenship. Since the European Union countries are part of a visa exemption program, it would only need to inform its entry into the US through the ESGS (Electronic Travel Authorization System).
However, with the delay greater than usual to receive confirmation of his authorization, Hugo sought US authorities. The Brazilian was then informed that he was no longer eligible for the dismissal of visa because of a trip to Cuba in 2023, when he played the Pan American Championship and a qualifying event for the Paris-2024 Olympic Games.
The Brazilian tried to obtain an emergency visa, but despite the support of the Olympic and Paralympic Committee of the Table Tennis and Paralympic Committee, he failed to schedule a consular interview in time to travel for the start of the competition.
“I followed the same protocol of all the previous trips I made to the United States using my Portuguese passport. When I was informed about the situation, I mobilized my entire team to get a regular emergency visa, but unfortunately there was no timely time,” said Hugo.
