Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially confirmed after the United States approved entry visas for the team’s players and staff. The decision ends weeks of uncertainty surrounding the squad’s travel arrangements amid strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Visa approval removes a major hurdle
Questions over Iran’s World Cup involvement emerged after reports suggested delays in visa processing for the team. With the tournament approaching, concerns grew that the players and coaching staff could face difficulties entering the United States, one of the competition’s host nations.
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Those concerns have now been put to rest after US authorities granted visas to the Iranian delegation. The approval allows the team to travel for its scheduled matches and continue preparations without disruption.
The development is particularly significant given the political tensions between Iran and the United States. Despite the diplomatic backdrop, tournament organisers and FIFA maintained that all qualified nations should be able to participate in the World Cup.
Iran to operate from Mexico
Although visas have been approved, Iran has chosen to base its World Cup operations in Tijuana, Mexico. The team will train there during the tournament and travel to the United States only for matches. This arrangement will help the squad avoid potential logistical challenges and keep preparation stable throughout the competition.
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Iran is set to begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand before taking on Belgium and Egypt in the remaining group-stage fixtures. The team will make regular trips from Mexico to match venues in the United States as required.
⚡️BREAKING: The US has banned the Iranian National Football team from staying on its territory before or after a World Cup match
The Iranian team will stay and train in Mexico; it will only be allowed to enter the US on match days and must leave after the game
Iran is the only… pic.twitter.com/NOrXtG0pbR
— Iran Observer (@IranObserver0) June 6, 2026
The visa clearance comes as a major relief for Iranian football officials, players and supporters, who had been awaiting a final decision on the matter. With travel concerns now resolved, the focus shifts fully to on-field preparations and the challenge of advancing from a competitive group.
The decision also reinforces FIFA’s commitment to ensuring that all qualified teams can compete at the World Cup regardless of wider political issues. For Iran, the approval removes a significant distraction and allows the squad to concentrate on its bid for a successful tournament campaign in North America.
