Iran's men's national football team traveled to Ankara, Turkey, to apply for U.S. and Canadian visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1].
Securing these permits is critical because the tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Without approved visas, the squad cannot enter the host territories to compete in the global event.
The visa appointments took place on Thursday, April 25, 2024 [1], at the U.S. and Canadian embassies in Ankara [2]. According to reports, the entire 23-player squad applied for Canadian visas [1], while several players also submitted applications for U.S. visas [3].
Despite the applications, the team has not yet received the necessary documentation. Mehdi Taj, President of the Iranian Football Federation, said, "We are still waiting for the visas" [4].
An unnamed Iranian player said, "We are hopeful to get our visas soon and focus on the tournament" [1]. The logistical move to Turkey reflects the necessity of accessing diplomatic missions where such applications can be processed for Iranian nationals.
A government spokesperson said, "The men’s national team is preparing for a proud and successful participation in the World Cup in the United States" [5].
The process remains in a state of uncertainty as the federation awaits a final decision from the respective embassies. The team's ability to participate depends entirely on these administrative approvals, a common hurdle for delegations from nations with complex diplomatic relations with the U.S.
“"We are still waiting for the visas."”
The requirement for the Iranian squad to travel to a third country, Turkey, to seek entry permits highlights the ongoing diplomatic tensions between Iran and the U.S. Because there is no U.S. embassy in Iran, athletes and officials must rely on intermediaries. Any delay or denial of these visas could jeopardize Iran's participation in the 2026 tournament, regardless of their athletic qualification.
