Iran’s status in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is currently in doubt as the national football team still lacks the necessary travel visas for entry into the United States.
With the tournament less than a month away, the Iran Football Federation reports that no documentation has been provided by American authorities.
Mehdi Taj, the president of the federation, stated that he intends to hold a critical discussion with FIFA officials to seek formal assurances.
Taj emphasized that the current lack of transparency regarding visa approvals remains a significant hurdle for the team’s planned participation.
The Iranian squad is slated to compete in group-stage matches in cities like Seattle and Los Angeles, with a team base camp anticipated in Tucson, Arizona.
However, strained diplomatic relations between Washington and Tehran, combined with existing travel restrictions on individuals connected to Iranian military branches such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have created substantial administrative obstacles.
While FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly expressed confidence that Iran will participate, Iranian officials are pressing for concrete guarantees regarding the safety and movement of their delegation.
The team remains intent on competing but is urging a rapid resolution to ensure their campaign begins without further disruption.
