The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, and among them, Iran, one of Asia’s football powerhouses, has already secured qualification. However, despite earning a spot through on-field performance, Iran now faces an unexpected off-field challenge — politics and visa complications.
This World Cup will be co-hosted by three countries — the United States, Canada, and Mexico — with most of the key matches, including the final, scheduled to take place in the United States. That’s where the real issue lies. Strict U.S. visa policies, recent sanctions, and the longstanding Iran-U.S. political tensions have made Iran’s World Cup journey far more complicated than expected.
Iran qualified for the World Cup after a draw against Uzbekistan in March this year. But without U.S. visas, their participation in the knockout rounds — which will be held on American soil — remains in serious doubt. This situation has reportedly raised concerns for FIFA and the tournament organizers.
According to the tournament schedule, if Iran are placed in Group A, their initial group-stage matches could take place in Mexico. However, if they progress to the Round of 16, their next matches would be held in the United States — where obtaining visas could prove extremely difficult for Iranian players.
The travel ban imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump is still active for citizens of 12 countries, including Iran. While there are rumors of possible exceptions for sporting events, nothing has been confirmed yet.
Historically, geopolitical conflicts have led to bans — for example, Russia and Yugoslavia in the past. Many in the football community are now wondering whether a similar situation could affect Iran’s participation.
This visa issue isn’t limited to the national team either. Iranian footballers have also faced problems at the club level. Mehdi Taremi, the Iranian striker newly signed by Inter Milan, was unable to join his team during the Club World Cup in the United States due to visa complications. Despite assistance from Italy’s foreign ministry, he couldn’t leave Tehran in time.
So far, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the U.S. administration have not made any official statements on the matter. However, if the situation escalates, serious questions may arise about whether Iran will actually be able to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
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