
Iranian forward’s visa woes expose diplomatic rift ahead of World Cup
Mehdi Torabi’s U.S. visa expired after a single World Cup appearance, underscoring how IRGC ties and U.S. immigration policy are shaping Iran’s tournament preparations.
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Mehdi Torabi’s U.S. visa expired after a single World Cup appearance, underscoring how IRGC ties and U.S. immigration policy are shaping Iran’s tournament preparations.

The United States has reiterated that Iran's national team was always expected to leave immediately after their World Cup games, a position that clashes with the squad's complaints about visa issues, staff denials and limited recovery time.

The Iranian squad’s World Cup campaign has been marred by visa denials, sudden relocations and limited support, casting a shadow over their participation.

After a forced early departure from Los Angeles, Iran’s national team confronts a cascade of visa rejections, a relocated base camp, and criticism from captain Mehdi Taremi over insufficient support.