FIFA Expected to Arrange Multiple-Entry Visas for Iran Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

FIFA is expected to arrange multiple-entry visas for Iran’s national football team ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to officials from the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran.

The move comes as Iran prepares for participation in the historic 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Iran Seeking Easier Travel Access for World Cup

Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj stated that FIFA is expected to facilitate “multiple-entry” visas for Iranian players and staff, allowing them to travel smoothly between the United States and Mexico during the tournament.

According to Taj, the arrangement would enable the squad to enter the United States for matches and return to Mexico without repeated visa complications.

The Iranian national football team, widely known as “Team Melli,” had originally planned to stay in Tucson, Arizona, during the competition. However, the federation later decided to shift its training base to Tijuana, Mexico.

Why Iran Shifted Its Base to Mexico

The decision to relocate the training camp from Arizona to Mexico was reportedly made to avoid potential travel and visa-related difficulties linked to US entry regulations.

Officials believe that operating from Mexico will allow the team to travel more efficiently while also reducing uncertainty surrounding visa approvals and political tensions.

Iranian officials also mentioned that traveling directly to Mexico via Iran Air flights would make logistics easier for players and staff throughout the tournament.

Iran’s Group Stage Matches in the United States

Despite shifting its camp to Mexico, Iran will still play all three of its Group G matches inside the United States.

Team Melli is scheduled to face:

• New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15
• Belgium national football team in Los Angeles
• Egypt national football team in Seattle

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the first tournament featuring 48 national teams, making it the biggest World Cup in football history.

Political Tensions Raised Concerns Over Participation

Iran’s participation in the tournament had faced uncertainty in recent months due to rising tensions in West Asia following military developments involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Concerns had emerged regarding international travel restrictions, visa approvals, and diplomatic complications surrounding the Iranian delegation.

However, FIFA’s expected support in arranging multiple-entry visas is seen as a major step toward ensuring smooth participation for the Iranian squad.

Uncertainty Surrounding Sardar Azmoun

Meanwhile, questions remain over the future of Iran’s star striker Sardar Azmoun.

Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj recently revealed that Azmoun was not included in the preliminary squad list prepared by the national team manager.

Azmoun, who previously played for Bayer 04 Leverkusen and AS Roma, has remained a controversial figure in Iran after publicly supporting anti-government protests.

The striker also faced criticism in Iranian media after photos surfaced showing him alongside Dubai’s ruler, where he currently plays professional football.

Despite the controversy, one of Iran’s vice presidents recently called for Azmoun’s return to the national squad ahead of the World Cup.

In a recent Instagram post, Azmoun emphasized his loyalty to the country, stating that he once rejected a major financial offer from another nation because he considers himself “a child of Iran.”

FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparations Continue

As preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA’s expected visa arrangements could play a crucial role in ensuring Iran’s smooth participation in the tournament.

With political tensions still affecting international sports logistics, the situation highlights how global football competitions increasingly intersect with diplomacy and international relations.

For now, Team Melli continues its preparations in hopes of making a strong impact on football’s biggest stage next year.