Iran team faces visa drama as US approves players, blocks officials

TEHRAN: In a surprising development ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Iranian media has reported a partial visa approval process by the United States, allowing players and technical staff of Iran’s national football team to enter the country, while several members of the team management have reportedly been denied visas.

According to Iranian state media, the US authorities approved visas for the 15-member core squad, including players and coaching personnel who will participate in training and on-field preparations for the tournament. However, management officials accompanying the team were reportedly excluded from the visa approvals, raising questions about administrative coordination ahead of the global event.

The situation has created uncertainty within the Iranian football federation as it prepares for one of its most high-profile World Cup appearances. Despite the complications, the team is expected to proceed with its preparations, with players and technical staff cleared to travel and participate in official duties.

Iran’s national team is scheduled to play all its group-stage matches in the United States during the tournament, although the squad will reportedly be based in Mexico for training and accommodation purposes. This split arrangement adds another layer of logistical complexity to their World Cup campaign.

Football analysts suggest that while the approval of player and coaching visas is a positive step, the exclusion of key management personnel could affect coordination, communication, and operational efficiency during the tournament. However, no official statement has yet been released by FIFA regarding the issue.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is expected to be the largest edition of the tournament, featuring expanded teams and increased global attention. For Iran, the focus now shifts to ensuring smooth preparations despite administrative hurdles.

As tensions and diplomatic sensitivities continue to influence international sporting arrangements, Iran’s participation remains secured on the field—but questions linger off it about travel logistics and team management structure ahead of football’s biggest stage.