Visa delays for Iran national football team ahead of 2026 World Cup

The head of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, announced on Thursday that the United States has yet to issue visas for any members of the Iranian national team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While FIFA President Gianni Infantino maintains confidence that the team will compete, the Iranian federation requires formal guarantees from FIFA during an upcoming meeting. Players are expected to travel to Ankara for fingerprinting to proceed with the visa process. Diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iran have been severed since 1980. Iran is drawn into Group 7 alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The Iranian delegation held a farewell ceremony on Wednesday, though their participation remains uncertain due to the ongoing visa situation and geopolitical tensions. U.S. authorities have stated they intend to prioritize fair play and a welcoming environment for the visiting team.