Iran will be represented at the 2026 World Cup draw. The event takes place in the United States on Friday. This attendance follows earlier threats to boycott. The boycott was due to an entry visa dispute.
The Iranian federation applied for nine visas. However, only four received approval. Mehdi Taj was among those denied. He serves as the president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI).
Taj stated this week that he spoke directly with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. He warned that Iran would stay away from the draw. This would happen “unless all visas are issued.”
Despite Taj’s strong stance, Iran’s coach has arrived in the US. Amir Ghalenoi is already there. Omid Jamali, FFIRI’s head of international relations, also made it. More officials might still join them. This depends on securing additional visa approvals.
The draw will be held in Washington D.C. on Friday. It begins at 3 p.m. Nigerian time. Preparations for the tournament are continuing. The US, Canada, and Mexico will co-host the event. Iran has qualified for its seventh World Cup. This marks their fourth consecutive appearance.
This dispute highlights long-standing US visa restrictions. These affect Iranian nationals. They are linked to broader political and security tensions. These tensions exist between the two countries.
In June, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order. It banned citizens from 12 countries. This measure was designed to “manage security threats.”
Iran is listed among these countries. However, exemptions are in place. These cover athletes and coaching staff. They are meant for major international events. These include the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
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