Iran World Cup squad still in visa limbo 10 days before first match, ambassador says

Iran's national soccer team remains in a visa limbo, with their U.S. entry uncertain just 10 days before their World Cup debut in Los Angeles. The ongoing conflict between the two nations has cast a shadow over the team's participation in the global tournament.

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We will keep trying until the final moment to enter (the U.S.) and play.

"We will keep trying until the final moment to enter (the U.S.) and play," said Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran's ambassador to Mexico, speaking through an interpreter. He described navigating a complex situation, including a last-minute relocation of the team's base from Arizona to Tijuana due to visa issues and a desire to minimize the team's presence in the U.S.

Pasandideh criticized the U.S. for actions that he believes indicate a lack of welcome for Iranians, contrasting it with the support received from Mexican officials. "But through its actions, it has shown that Iranians have no place there," he stated, while praising Mexico for fast-tracking their visas. The White House and U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

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Sport and the World Cup were created to bring nations closer together. But we are not witnessing that right now.

The World Cup, typically a unifying event, has become a geopolitical contest. This is the first World Cup where a host nation is set to play a country it is at war with. Iran's participation, Pasandideh argued, demonstrates a desire for peace amidst slow progress in peace talks, which are entering their fourth month with no "tangible progress" reported.

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But through its actions, it has shown that Iranians have no place there.

Adding to the complications, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the U.S. would not permit individuals linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards to be part of the delegation, potentially affecting several players. The team is scheduled to play its first match on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles.

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Iran’s participation in the World Cup, even on the soil of what is seen as its enemy, shows that Iran seeks peace.