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A diplomatic row has erupted after the United States denied visas to several members of Iran’s 2026 World Cup delegation, including football federation chief Mehdi Taj, just five days before the tournament. While players and some staff received visas on June 5, Iranian state media reported that support staff, technical advisers, and executives were excluded. A US state department official said “necessary visas” were issued and accused Iran of trying to “sneak terrorists into the United States under pretenses.” Iran’s embassy in Turkey accused the US of discrimination and said it would take the matter to FIFA.
Key Points:
Without key support staff, Iran’s logistical and medical preparation for matches will be severely handicapped.
The dispute adds political tension to a tournament already overshadowed by US‑Iran hostilities.
Iran may struggle to comply with FIFA rules requiring coaches to attend pre‑match press conferences on US soil.
Conflicting reports on visa conditions (same‑day entry vs multiple‑entry) create uncertainty for team logistics.
FIFA faces pressure to intervene, but its authority over US immigration policy is limited.
Iran has vowed to pursue the matter with FIFA, but with the World Cup starting June 11, a resolution is unlikely before their opening match against New Zealand on June 15.
Sources: Soccernet, Score Nigeria
