Iran’s national football team has been granted visas to enter the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending weeks of uncertainty over whether the squad would be allowed to participate amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Gatekeepers News reports that the development was confirmed by U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack and U.S. officials.
According to reports, the visa approval allows Iran to compete in the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Barrack praised embassy officials involved in the process, saying, “Sports transcends borders, and we look forward to welcoming competitors and fans from around the world.”
Despite the breakthrough, not all members of Iran’s delegation have received entry permits. Several technical and administrative officials, including some senior football federation personnel, were still awaiting visas or had reportedly been denied entry. Iranian football authorities criticized the situation and suggested they could raise the matter with FIFA.
The Iranian team is expected to base its World Cup preparations in Mexico rather than the United States. The squad was initially scheduled to stay in the U.S. but moved its camp due to diplomatic tensions and concerns surrounding the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 16, before facing Belgium and Egypt in the group stage. All three matches are scheduled to take place in the United States.
The visa decision is being viewed as a significant diplomatic and sporting development, ensuring that one of Asia’s top football nations will participate in the world’s biggest football tournament despite the geopolitical challenges surrounding the event.
