Iran Faces Visa Uncertainty for 2026 World Cup in US Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Less than a month before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Iranian national football team has not yet received visas to travel to the United States for their scheduled matches. Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI), expressed significant discontent regarding this uncertainty, stating that no visas have been issued and no reports received from US authorities. The situation is complicated by the lack of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington since 1980 and recent geopolitical tensions following attacks by the US and Israel against Iran. Taj announced a decisive meeting with FIFA to demand guarantees for the team's participation. Despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino's assurances that Iran will play in the US as per the tournament draw, players are currently required to travel to Ankara, Turkey, for fingerprinting as part of the visa process. Iran is set to compete in Group G against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with matches planned in California and Seattle. The federation maintains that organizing the tournament is FIFA's responsibility, emphasizing their qualification status amidst the ongoing diplomatic standoff.