Iran Awaits U.S. Visa Approval for 2026 World Cup Bid

The Iranian national football team is currently in the process of securing U.S. visas necessary for their participation in the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. Mehdi Taj, the President of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), confirmed that passport applications have been submitted to the U.S.

Embassy in Ankara. The visa application process is complicated by existing political tensions between Iran and the United States, raising concerns about the entry of Iranian team members into U.S. territory prior to the World Cup.

Taj disclosed that FIFA has been advised of the situation and is monitoring developments regarding visa acquisition. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism that there would be no issues with the visa process.

The Iranian team plans to travel to Turkey and Spain before heading to their World Cup base in Tijuana, Mexico, with their group matches scheduled to take place in Tucson, Arizona, contingent upon visa approval.