Iran accuses US of discrimination over World Cup visas

Iran's delegation has formally accused the United States of discriminatory practices, citing the denial of visas for several members of its sports delegation just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The incident has cast a shadow over the team's preparations for the tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19.

While the U.S. ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barrack, initially announced that visas had been granted to the footballers and essential support staff, Iran's diplomatic mission in Turkey countered on social media. They stated that directors, executives, and technical advisors for the national team were among those excluded from receiving the necessary travel documents.

This situation unfolds against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, which had previously jeopardized Iran's participation in the tournament. Iranian media, including the specialized portal Varzesh3, confirmed that Mehdi Taj, the president of the Iranian Football Federation, is among those denied a visa.

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The U.S. government excluded directors, executives, and technical advisors of the national team from the benefit.

The administrative hurdles have compelled the Iranian federation to alter its logistical plans. The team's planned base camp in Tucson, Arizona, has been permanently moved to Tijuana, Mexico, due to its proximity to the U.S. border. The Iranian team is scheduled to travel to Spain before connecting to Mexico, aiming to arrive on Sunday.

Despite these administrative setbacks, Iran's World Cup schedule remains intact. The team is set to debut on June 15 in Los Angeles, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26, both in California and Seattle respectively.

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Mehdi Taj, the president of the Iranian Football Federation, is among the people who did not receive the visa.