The United States has granted visas to all players in Iran’s national football squad for the 2026 World Cup, but a number of team officials and support staff have been denied entry, according to Tasnim News Agency.
Those yet to receive visas include team manager Mehdi Mohammadnabi, Football Federation Secretary General Hedayat Mombini, national team executive director Mehdi Kharaati, media director Mohsen Motamedkia, media team member Siamak Qalichkhani, one of the squad’s analysts, and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, security services, and the International Committee.
The affected individuals were scheduled to travel with the team from Antalya, Turkey, to Tijuana, Mexico, on Saturday, where Iran plans to base its pre-tournament camp. Tasnim reported that efforts to secure the outstanding visas are continuing.
Iran’s first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is against New Zealand on June 15. The team then faces Belgium on June 21, before closing out the group stage against Egypt on June 26.
