Sports Desk – The United States has officially granted entry visas to the players of the Iranian national football team, clearing the way for their participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. A US official confirmed the development to ABC News on Friday.
Training Camp and Application Process
The Iranian squad is currently holding a pre-World Cup training camp in Antalya, Turkey. From there, the delegation submitted their visa applications through the US Embassy in Ankara.
According to US officials, visas have been approved for the players, coaching staff, fitness trainers, and essential support staff. However, authorities did not disclose whether any specific individual applications within the delegation were rejected. Officials noted that the team will be able to depart for either the United States or Mexico as soon as their passports are returned with the issued visas.
High-Level Scrutiny and IRGC Warning
Despite the approvals, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that members of the Iranian delegation will be placed under strict surveillance. In particular, any individuals suspected of having links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will face rigorous monitoring.
“We have no issue with the athletes or their genuine support staff,” Secretary Rubio stated. “However, anyone unrelated to the sport or linked to the IRGC will not be allowed to exploit this opportunity to enter the country.”
Both the United States and Canada designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. Travel complications are not new for Iranian football officials; just last April, Canada revoked the visa of Mehdi Taj, the president of the Iran Football Federation, over allegations regarding his past ties to the IRGC.
Iran’s World Cup Schedule and Geopolitical Tension
Uncertainty had loomed over Iran’s participation in the tournament following a sharp escalation in military tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel in February.
While former US President Donald Trump raised objections regarding Iran’s participation and cited player safety concerns, the Iranian national team responded defiantly, stating that no one could bar them from competing. FIFA also maintained from the beginning that Iran would participate fully in the tournament.
Jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will see Iran competing in Group Stage matches across major North American venues:
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June 15: Iran vs. New Zealand (Inglewood)
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June 21: Iran vs. Belgium (Inglewood)
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June 26: Iran vs. Egypt (Seattle)