Iran has accused the United States of denying visas to multiple “indispensable” members of its national football team’s delegation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as U.S. officials confirmed earlier that Iranian players had been cleared to travel. The dispute, which emerged amid heightened U.S.-Iran tensions, has raised concerns about the team’s preparation for the tournament, set to take place in Mexico and the United States. Iran’s football federation has not yet provided specific details on the number of affected staff, but the issue has underscored the broader geopolitical challenges facing the squad as they prepare for the global event.
What Happened: Visa Denials and Travel Plans
The Iranian men’s football team was scheduled to travel to Tijuana, Mexico, for training ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which begins in June 2026. However, reports from U.S. media indicate that some senior officials and logistical personnel were denied entry visas, complicating the team’s preparations. According to a report by CBS News, the U.S. Department of State had previously approved visas for the players, but the denial of visas for “key support staff” has raised questions about the U.S. government’s stance on the delegation.
“The U.S. has a history of restricting travel for Iranian officials, particularly those linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or other state
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