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Iran National Team Travels to Mexico Amid Ongoing US Visa Dispute
The Iran National Football Team has departed from Turkey to their training camp in Mexico as part of their World Cup preparations. However, a visa dispute with the US has emerged as a new source of tension, complicating the team's tournament plans.
The Iran National Football Team traveled from Antalya to Tijuana, Mexico, for their World Cup preparation camp. The team is planned to move to the US later for their group stage matches in the tournament.
However, the journey took place under the shadow of a visa dispute with the US. According to the Iranian Football Federation, some senior officials and administrative staff were unable to obtain visas while the team was preparing for the US matches.
Federation Accuses Washington of Discrimination
The Iranian Football Federation strongly criticized the refusal to grant visas to several key managers and support staff. The federation argued that this undermines fair competition and announced it would raise the issue with FIFA.
Among those reportedly denied visas were General Secretary Hedayat Mombeini and Vice President Mehdi Mohammad Nabi. It remains unclear whether Federation President Mehdi Taj received entry permission.
US officials stated that all Iranian players received visas. According to these officials, players, technical staff, coaches, and some support personnel were approved; however, some applicants were rejected due to "false declarations."
Camp Moved to Tijuana
Visa issues also altered Iran's preparation plans. The team relocated their camp from Tucson to Tijuana, near the US border.
It was reported that Iranian players had previously trained in Antalya and obtained entry permission from Mexican authorities. This indicates the team prepared for the initial phase of the tournament in Mexico before moving to the US.
Tournament Schedule and Possible Matchup
Iran will play its first World Cup match on June 15 in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand. They will face Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
If Iran finishes second in their group, there is a possibility of facing the US on July 3 in Arlington, Texas, in the round of 32. This potential matchup adds a layer of sensitivity to the tournament due to political tensions between the two countries.
Tensions Overshadow the Tournament
Iran's participation in the tournament had already been closely watched following regional conflicts earlier this year. In March, US President Donald Trump questioned whether Iran should participate in the World Cup and expressed concerns about the safety of Iranian players.
The Iran National Team rejected these statements, asserting that no one could exclude them from the tournament. Iranian sports officials initially hesitated about participation due to the war's impact but the federation later decided to proceed with the squad.
The federation finalized its squad this week, including 17 players from the domestic league, which has been inactive since February.
Thus, Iran's World Cup journey has become not only a sporting preparation but also a process reflecting diplomatic tensions on the field.
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