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Iran Calls on FIFA to Sanction US Over Visa Delays Ahead of 2026 World Cup
The Iran National Team has urged FIFA to intervene due to delays in US visa processing ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Iranian officials reported that some team staff were unable to obtain visas, while head coach Amir Ghalenoei and captain Ihsan Haji Safi expressed their frustration over the disruptions.
The Iran National Team has requested FIFA's intervention due to delays in US visa processing ahead of the 2026 World Cup. It was reported that some team officials and administrative staff were unable to obtain visas, with Iranian authorities claiming this was a deliberate and discriminatory act.
The team began their stay in Tijuana, Mexico, ahead of the tournament. The delegation arrived in the region just days before their first match, but the delayed visas for entry into the US complicated their preparations.
Coaching staff and officials denied visas
The Iranian side announced that some members of the technical and administrative staff were unable to secure US visas. This caused discomfort within the team and drew a strong reaction from the federation.
Iran argued that these actions violate football regulations and requested FIFA to investigate the US for non-compliance. Iranian officials claimed the treatment was discriminatory against the national team.
Reactions from head coach and captain
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei stated that the team should have arrived earlier in the Americas, noting that time was lost adjusting to the long journey and time difference. He emphasized that the preparation process has not proceeded under ideal conditions.
Captain Ihsan Haji Safi also complained about the lengthy visa wait but affirmed that the national team is ready for the matches and is striving to maintain focus on the field.
Match schedule to be played in the US
Iran will play all three group stage matches on US soil. The team is scheduled to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium again in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
This situation is notable as it involves the host country welcoming a team from a nation currently in conflict with it. The Iranian side is calling on FIFA to intervene promptly to prevent the visa crisis from extending into match week.
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