Status of Iranian national football team visas for the 2026 World Cup

The United States government confirmed that visas were issued to the Iranian national football team players for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. While White House officials stated that visas were granted, the Iranian embassy in Turkey alleged discriminatory practices, reporting that many members of the coaching staff and administrative personnel, including Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj, were denied entry. The Iranian team, currently in Turkey, submitted their passports to the U.S. embassy in Ankara to finalize the process. Iran is scheduled to play group matches against New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle on June 27. Due to visa uncertainties, the team relocated its training camp to Mexico. Political tensions between the two nations previously raised concerns about the team's ability to enter the United States for the tournament.