The US State Department has decided not to issue visas to members of the Iranian football delegation. This news jeopardized Iran's personal participation in the 2026 World Cup draw, The Tehran Times reported.
The ceremony is scheduled for December 5th at the Kennedy Center stage in Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. Among those denied visas are Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj, national team head coach Amir Ghalenoyi, and seven other officials.
According to reports, this decision is related to a decree issued earlier this year by US President Donald Trump, which provides for entry restrictions for citizens of 12 countries. It is noted that these restrictions made it practically impossible for the delegation to personally attend the ceremony.
It was reported that the Iranian side is preparing an appeal to FIFA to resolve the situation. Through the sports organization, diplomatic channels can be launched, at least partial participation of the delegation, or the option of remote participation can be discussed. Until an official decision is announced, the Iranian delegation's trip to Washington remains in serious doubt.
At the same time, the visa issue will not affect the draw results: the ceremony will be held on the specified date, and the federations will be able to monitor the entire process using technical means. But the presence of delegations in person in the hall is not just a protocol - it is also important for strengthening ties, holding working meetings with the organizers.
Observers note that this situation once again demonstrates the unclear structure of the border between sports and politics. Additional comments from FIFA and the US are expected in the coming days, while Iran will continue to defend its position.
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