Iran's football federation is optimistic about securing multiple-entry US visas for its national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Mehdi Taj, the federation's president, confirmed on Thursday that they are relying on FIFA to facilitate this process as the squad prepares to base itself in Tijuana, Mexico, for the tournament.

Visa Challenges Ahead of the Tournament

The World Cup is set to begin on June 11, and Iran's players need clearance to enter the United States, where they will play all three of their group stage matches. “FIFA is expected to deliver a multiple-entry visa so that the players can enter and return [to Mexico],” Taj stated.

This visa situation has been complicated by geopolitical tensions. Following a bombing campaign against Iran by the United States and Israel on February 28, concerns arose regarding the team's participation in a tournament co-hosted by the US. In response to these uncertainties, the Iranian squad shifted its training base to Tijuana, Mexico, after initially planning to set up camp in Tucson, Arizona. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that her country would host the Iranian team, providing a workaround to the visa issues.

FIFA's Support and Team Preparations

FIFA has expressed its commitment to ensuring that Iran can participate in the tournament. At a recent congress in Vancouver, FIFA President Gianni Infantino assured that Iran would play its scheduled matches in the US. Iranian sports minister Ahmad Donyamali echoed this support, stating, “The FIFA president promised us that all our players would receive visas. There is no reason why our players should not receive visas.”

In the meantime, some players are proactively addressing the visa situation. A group from the squad visited the US embassy in Ankara on Thursday to submit their visa applications while the team continues its training camp in Antalya, Turkey. “It is certain now that we will go to Mexico. The team is preparing,” Taj confirmed.

As the World Cup approaches, the visa issue appears to be moving toward resolution, but other concerns remain, particularly regarding the inclusion of Sardar Azmoun, Iran's prominent footballer, who was not included in the initial squad list.