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Tensions Rise Over Travel Conditions to United States
The head of Iran’s football federation, Mehdi Taj, has called on FIFA to provide firm guarantees regarding the treatment of Iranian officials ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Taj insisted that assurances must be given that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will not be disrespected during Iran’s visit to the United States, where the tournament will be co-hosted.
Fallout from Canada Visa Incident
The demand follows a recent incident in which an Iranian delegation, including Taj, was forced to turn back from Canada while attempting to attend the FIFA Congress in Vancouver.
Canadian authorities reportedly revoked Taj’s visa mid-journey due to alleged links to the IRGC, which Canada designated as a terrorist organization in 2024—aligning with a similar classification by the United States years earlier.
In response, FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström has invited Iranian officials to a meeting in Zurich on May 20 to address concerns surrounding World Cup preparations.
World Cup Participation Under Scrutiny
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19.
Iran are set to play two group-stage matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. However, U.S. officials have made it clear that individuals with links to the IRGC will not be permitted entry into the country.
Despite this, Taj emphasized that Iran qualified for the tournament and expects to be treated fairly as participants under FIFA’s authority.
Call for Clear Assurances
Taj warned that without concrete guarantees, the Iranian delegation could face similar issues upon arrival in the United States.
He stressed that FIFA, as the official organizer, must ensure that participating teams are respected and protected from political or diplomatic complications during the tournament.
Preparations Continue Amid Uncertainty
While the situation remains unresolved, Iran’s national team continues its preparations for the World Cup. With domestic football currently suspended, players are training in Tehran.
The federation is also exploring the possibility of arranging a friendly match in Turkey as part of their build-up to the tournament.