Iranian footballer Torabi risks missing World Cup matches over expired US visa

Mehdi Torabi, a player for Iran's national football team, faces the risk of missing crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers because his single-entry U.S. visa has expired. The Iranian Football Federation confirmed the situation and is working on a new visa application for the 31-year-old.

Torabi's visa issue arose after Iran's match against New Zealand in Los Angeles, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Iran is scheduled to play Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27 in their remaining group matches.

The team also experienced difficulties after the New Zealand game. They were denied permission to conduct a recovery training session at the stadium and were instructed to leave their training camp in Mexico. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration, stating, "They told us we had to leave immediately. This situation is very difficult for us. Honestly, I don't know why they sent us back. It seems very strange, as if others are planning for us."

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They told us we had to leave immediately. This situation is very difficult for us. Honestly, I don't know why they sent us back. It seems very strange, as if others are planning for us.