Iran Issues Warning to FIFA Over Visa Issues Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Iran's Stance on FIFA and World Cup Participation

Iran has issued a strong message to FIFA regarding the uncertainty surrounding their participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is just a month away. This situation arises amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, who are co-hosting the tournament along with Mexico and Canada. As of now, Iranian players have not received their visas, prompting the nation to caution FIFA that preventing their team from competing due to political issues would breach the fundamental principles of international sports. A statement from the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting on X highlighted this concern, emphasizing Iran's right to compete.

On Wednesday, May 13, a farewell rally took place in Tehran, drawing thousands of supporters for the national team. Mehidy Taj, the President of the Iranian Football Association, confirmed that the visa situation remains unresolved. He stated, "The visa issue has still not been resolved. We are scheduled for a crucial meeting with FIFA soon. They need to provide us with guarantees. We have yet to receive any information about who has been granted visas, and no visas have been issued so far," Taj informed local news outlets.

Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, indicating that Iran would be permitted to participate after being questioned about FIFA President Gianni Infantino's remarks, which suggested there would be no restrictions on Iran's involvement. Trump stated, "If Gianni said it, I’m OK. Let them play," despite having previously suggested in March that Iran should withdraw from the tournament for safety reasons.

Iran's Match Schedule in the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Iran is scheduled to compete in all their matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. They are placed in Group G and will face New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles, and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.