Iran has strongly criticized the United States for refusing visas to a number of its World Cup squad support staff, just days before the start of the 2026 tournament. The dispute erupted as the Iranian national team prepared to leave Turkey for Mexico, where they will be based during the competition.
Visa Controversy Escalates
The Iranian players, who have been training in Antalya, Turkey, since May 18, received their visas late on Friday. US envoy to Turkey Tom Barrack praised the US embassy in Ankara for processing the visas. However, Iran's embassy in Turkey responded angrily on Saturday, claiming that a large number of managerial and executive staff had been denied visas. The embassy accused the US of deliberate and discriminatory treatment, urging FIFA to hold the US accountable for violating its rules.
Political Interference Alleged
Iran's Football Federation, whose chief Mehdi Taj was reportedly among those denied a visa, described the decision as political interference in sport. The federation stated that the US government had extended its hostile behavior into the sporting arena, depriving Iran's national team of the opportunity to compete without discrimination. Iranian state TV reported that while players and technical staff received visas, 15 administrative and management personnel did not. The matter is expected to be followed up in Mexico.
Background of Tensions
The visa issue is complicated by ongoing tensions between Iran and the US, which have escalated since the US and Israel began bombing Iran on February 28. A ceasefire in April has been unraveling with recent strikes. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously suggested that some Iranian support staff might have ties to the Revolutionary Guards, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the US. Taj is reportedly a former Guards member.
Team Melli's Journey
Team Melli was scheduled to leave Antalya for Mexico on a flight that would stop in Spain before arriving early Sunday. However, Iranian state TV reported a later departure time. The team will be based in Tijuana, Mexico, for the tournament, but all three group stage matches will be held in the United States. Iran is in Group G, facing New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Before departing, Iran played a final friendly against Mali on Thursday, winning 2-0, following a 3-1 victory over Gambia on May 29.
