The United States has approved visas for Iran’s national football team to compete in the 2026 World Cup, but the approval is marred by the denial of entry to several essential staff members.
Among those barred from traveling are executive director Mehdi Kharati, secretary general Hedayat Mombini and media director Mohsen Motamedkia, figures the Iranian federation had counted on for logistical and communications support.
Diplomatic Reactions
The Iranian embassy in Washington issued a sharp criticism of the U.S. decision, emphasizing that the excluded staff are integral to the team’s preparation and warning that the move could affect broader diplomatic relations.
Despite the visa snag, Iran’s matches will proceed as originally scheduled on U.S. soil, with the opening group game against New Zealand set for June 15 in Los Angeles, followed by fixtures against Belgium and Egypt in the same city and in Seattle respectively.
The squad will establish its base in Tijuana, Mexico, a location chosen for its logistical convenience and to sidestep the administrative hurdles encountered at the border.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been monitoring the situation, while former U.S. president Donald Trump’s past comments on international sports participation provide a contextual backdrop for analysts.
The episode underscores the complex interplay between sports governance, immigration policy and diplomatic signaling as the tournament approaches.