Former model and podcaster Abbey Clancy recently recounted a nerve-wracking experience at a New York airport involving her daughter’s entry into the United States. The family had traveled to the US to support Abbey’s husband, former England and Liverpool footballer Peter Crouch, who was working as a pundit at this year’s World Cup final.
Abbey, 40, who co-hosts the podcast ‘The Therapy Crouch’ with Peter, explained that strict US immigration protocols caused considerable delays and stress. The incident happened after an hour and a half wait in the queue, when her daughter Sophia, 15, who had recently renewed her passport, was required to provide fingerprints—a process different from their previous visits.
Abbey described the moment: “We landed, then Sophia nearly got arrested at the airport. The security here is very strict, nothing like the UK. Those immigration officers don’t take jokes. Sophia asked why she had to give fingerprints, and then nervously joked, ‘Is that in case there are fingerprints on the gun?’”
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This seemingly innocent comment caused confusion among the officers. Abbey mimicked their reaction: “They asked, ‘What? Your fingerprints are on a gun?’ I had to explain that Sophia was just trying to understand the process, not implying anything.”
Adding to their distress, the driver they arranged to pick them up left after waiting too long through immigration and baggage claim, leaving the family stranded with all their belongings from Portugal. Abbey recalled breaking down in tears, overwhelmed by the situation and the fact that England had lost the match that day.
Entry to the US is governed by strict regulations, including the need for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a valid visa, depending on the traveler’s circumstances. The UK government warns that failing to meet these requirements or misunderstanding the entry rules can lead to refusal, detention, or even deportation.
Abbey’s experience highlights how meticulous and unforgiving US airport security can be, especially for first-time arrivals or those with recent travel document changes. Travelers are advised to stay informed of current rules to avoid similar predicaments.