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, despite holding a farewell ceremony in Tehran. Mehdi Taj, President of the Iran Football Federation, stated that no visas have been issued and emphasized the need for guarantees from FIFA during upcoming decisive meetings. The team is scheduled to travel to the United States, where they will be based in Tucson, Arizona, and play their opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. Visa processing complications persist, with players originally expected to travel to Ankara for fingerprinting, though efforts are underway to arrange this in Antalya instead. This logistical crisis occurs against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tension, following a brief war between the US, Israel, and Iran earlier in the year, which ended in a fragile ceasefire in April. The lack of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington since 1980 further complicates the situation. As the tournament co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada approaches, uncertainty remains regarding the team's ability to enter the country for their Group G matches against Belgium and Egypt as well.