Iran Football Team Cleared for US Entry Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

Washington, June 2026: Members of Iran’s national football team have received visas to enter the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, resolving weeks of uncertainty over their participation in the global tournament amid ongoing political tensions between Washington and Tehran.

A White House official confirmed that the visas were approved just ten days before Iran’s opening Group G fixture against New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15. The decision comes after Iranian authorities had raised concerns that players and team officials were still awaiting the necessary travel clearances.

The delay had prompted Iran to alter its tournament preparations. Instead of establishing its training base in Arizona as originally planned, the team shifted its camp to Tijuana, Mexico. Iranian officials have indicated that the squad will continue to be based in Mexico and travel into the United States for its scheduled World Cup matches.

Iran is set to begin its campaign against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles. The team will then face Belgium national football team on June 21 at the same venue before taking on Egypt national football team in Seattle on June 26.

According to US officials, visas have been granted to players, coaches and essential support personnel, ensuring that the team can compete without disruption. However, reports suggest that some members of the broader delegation may still encounter restrictions due to concerns over alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which remains subject to US sanctions and scrutiny.

The visa approval removes a significant hurdle for Iran’s participation in the World Cup and provides clarity ahead of one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. The 2026 tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first World Cup to be staged across three countries.

Iran’s involvement has drawn particular attention because of the strained diplomatic relationship between Tehran and Washington. Despite those tensions, the latest decision ensures that sporting participation will proceed as planned.

With travel issues now largely resolved, Iran can focus on its preparations for the tournament, where it hopes to make a strong impact in Group G and advance beyond the group stage in one of football’s biggest competitions.