Iran faces visa controversy ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Iran's national football team has arrived in Mexico for their 2026 World Cup campaign, but their journey is overshadowed by a significant visa controversy. While the players secured entry to the United States for their Group I matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, around 15 members of their delegation were denied visas.

Among those affected is the President of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, sparking questions about political interference in the world's biggest football event. "It makes no sense to me because sports should be a symbol of peace. When politics are mixed with sports, it will not bring good to anyone," said Sadegh Galavi, an Iranian fan residing in Tijuana.

This situation adds to the challenges Iran has faced, including uncertainty due to recent military conflicts, which had previously raised doubts about their World Cup participation. However, Iran is now in the tournament and has chosen Tijuana as its training base instead of Tucson, Arizona, for security reasons.

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It makes no sense to me because sports should be a symbol of peace. When politics are mixed with sports, it will not bring good to anyone.

Supporters remain resilient, with Iran-American fan Sina Moghadam stating, "I don't think all these things will affect the team because Iran's history has gone through various challenges. Situations like this only make us stronger and will not shake the players' focus."

Tight security measures are in place around the team's hotel and training grounds at Caliente Stadium. Many fans are hopeful that Iran can make history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time in their World Cup history.

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I don't think all these things will affect the team because Iran's history has gone through various challenges. Situations like this only make us stronger and will not shake the players' focus.