[59904] The Iranian national team visa crisis: Urgent meeting with FIFA ahead of the World Cup

The Iranian national team visa crisis: Urgent meeting with FIFA

Less than a month before the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Iranian national team is in the midst of an entry visa crisis for the United States. Mehdi Taj, Chairman of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, announced that as of now, no visas have been issued for members of the delegation, and a "fateful" meeting with FIFA representatives is expected to take place in Turkey within the next 48 hours.

According to Taj, as reported by the 'Akharin Khabar' (Latest News) channel, Iran is demanding official "guarantees" from FIFA, stating: "It is no longer acceptable to us that FIFA settles for a letter of regret if something happens in the United States." He added that Iran does not trust the American administration, and that the responsibility for resolving the crisis lies directly on the shoulders of the international body.

At the same time, the 'Iran International' agency, known for its sharp criticism of the regime in Tehran, reported that the delay is likely due to the American authorities' concern about issuing visas to staff members linked to the Revolutionary Guards. Iranian Football Federation spokesperson, Amir-Mehdi Alavi, confirmed that this is a complex problem that has required preparation for extreme scenarios: "In the event that some players do not receive a visa, we have prepared a list of substitute players."

The crisis puts the national team coach, Amir Ghalenoei, in a state of professional uncertainty, as the final squad remains dependent on the consular decisions of the US. The situation highlights the deep tension between participation in international sports and the political reality of Iran vis-à-vis the West.