Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran president Mehdi Taj said Iran’s players are still waiting to receive visas for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on June 11. However, uncertainty continues to surround Iran’s participation because of ongoing political tensions involving the United States and Iran.

Iran Yet to Receive Visa Clearance

Thousands of supporters gathered in Tehran on Wednesday for a farewell rally before the national team’s departure for the World Cup. Despite the send-off, Taj revealed that visa approvals have not yet arrived.

"The visa issue has still not been resolved," Taj told Iranian state news agency IRNA. "Tomorrow or the day after, we will have a decisive meeting with Fifa. They must give us guarantees," he added.

Taj also said Iranian officials have not received any clear response from authorities handling the visa process. "We have not received any account from the other side regarding who has been granted visas. No visas have been issued yet."

Iran Scheduled to Play Matches in US Cities

Iran will begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand national football team on June 15 in Los Angeles. They will then face Belgium national football team on June 21, also in Los Angeles, before taking on Egypt national football team in Seattle on June 26.

The team plans to stay in Tucson, Arizona during the tournament.

Political Tensions Raise Concerns

The visa issue comes amid strained relations between Iran and the United States. Although the two countries are currently observing a month-long ceasefire, concerns remain over travel restrictions and diplomatic tensions. Questions over Iran’s participation increased after problems faced by Iranian officials during FIFA’s annual congress in Vancouver last month.

Gianni Infantino had earlier dismissed fears about Iran missing the tournament. “Of course, Iran will play in the United States of America," Infantino said during the FIFA congress.

Iranian Delegation Turned Away in Canada

Iran was the only country not represented at FIFA’s annual congress after Canadian authorities stopped a delegation of Iranian football officials, including Taj, from entering the country.

Taj later said the delegation chose to return home after facing what they considered disrespectful treatment from immigration officers.

Canada’s immigration minister later told parliament that Taj’s visa had been cancelled while he was travelling because of alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

US Position on Iran Players

Marco Rubio recently stated that Iranian players would be allowed to participate in the World Cup. However, he warned that people linked to the IRGC could face restrictions while entering the United States.

The Iranian football federation has now submitted a list of 10 conditions to FIFA regarding the team’s participation in the tournament.

One of the demands asks FIFA to ensure visas are granted to players, coaches and officials who completed mandatory military service connected to the IRGC.