Iran Awaits US Visas for World Cup Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Less than a month before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran’s national football team remains without US visas, raising concerns about their participation in the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Mehdi Taj, President of the Iran Football Federation, confirmed that no visas have been issued despite a farewell ceremony held in Tehran. Taj announced plans for decisive meetings with FIFA to secure guarantees for the team's entry. Players are currently required to travel to Ankara, Turkey, for fingerprinting, though officials are attempting to arrange this process in Antalya to simplify logistics. This visa delay occurs against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tension, following a brief war between the US, Israel, and Iran earlier in 2026, which ended in a fragile ceasefire in April. With no diplomatic relations since 1980, the situation highlights the intersection of sports and international politics. Iran is scheduled to play its opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by games against Belgium and Egypt. The team is expected to be based in Tucson, Arizona, during the competition.