Iran is demanding that the U.S. issue multiple-entry visas for its World Cup squad and officials to ensure travel to the tournament [1].
The request comes as the delegation prepares for group-stage matches. Any failure to secure these visas could prevent the team from competing in the tournament, turning a sporting event into a diplomatic standoff.
Iran's football federation and top soccer official Mehdi Taj are seeking these guarantees as the tournament is approximately two weeks away [1, 2]. The Iranian delegation plans to be based in Tijuana, Mexico, and will travel into the U.S. for three group-stage matches [1, 3].
Officials said concerns over visa-processing delays and broader security fears are the primary drivers for the demand [1, 4]. They also pointed to recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump as a reason for seeking firm travel guarantees [4].
Discussions regarding these logistics are taking place in Zurich and at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver [2, 3]. Iran expects FIFA to facilitate the process to ensure the squad can travel freely between their base in Mexico and the match venues in the U.S. [1, 4].
The football federation said that the current uncertainty regarding entry permits puts the team's participation at risk. This logistical hurdle is compounded by the team's decision to base its operations outside the U.S. borders in Tijuana [2, 3].
“Iran is demanding that the U.S. issue multiple-entry visas for its World Cup squad and officials.”
This dispute highlights the intersection of international sports and geopolitical tension. By basing the team in Mexico and requesting multiple-entry visas, Iran is attempting to mitigate the risk of being denied entry or facing restrictive movement within the U.S. The reliance on FIFA to mediate suggests that the football governing body remains the only viable channel for diplomatic negotiation between the two nations.
