Iran has called on the United States, Canada, and Mexico to issue visas for the 2026 World Cup without considering political reasons [2].
The demand follows diplomatic friction regarding the movement of sports officials. This request highlights the tension between national security or immigration policies and the international standards set by football's governing body.
Baghi, a spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, made the statement on May 6 [1]. He said the governments of the three host nations should provide necessary visas in accordance with FIFA regulations, regardless of political motivations [2].
The request stems from an incident last month in which an official from the Iranian Football Federation was denied entry into Canada [2]. That denial resulted in the official missing a FIFA general assembly meeting [2].
Iran is seeking assurances that similar restrictions will not be applied to players, staff, or officials during the tournament. The Iranian government maintains that sports should remain separate from political disputes to ensure the fair participation of all qualified nations.
Baghi said, "Visas should be issued without considering political reasons" [1]. He said host governments are obligated to follow FIFA's established guidelines to facilitate the event [2].
“"Visas should be issued without considering political reasons"”
This dispute underscores the recurring conflict between FIFA's mandate for global inclusivity and the sovereign right of host nations to control their borders. If the U.S., Canada, or Mexico maintain strict visa restrictions based on political sanctions or security concerns, it could lead to a legal or diplomatic standoff between Iran and the tournament organizers, potentially impacting the team's ability to compete.
