Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, has issued fresh criticism of arrangements surrounding the United States’ role in hosting part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 amid visa problems affecting Iran’s delegation.
International reports indicate that Iran’s players were granted US entry visas, while issues remained for several administrative, media and federation officials.
The situation escalated further after Iran’s federation said part of its supporter ticket allocation had been withdrawn shortly before the tournament, a move it viewed as contrary to fair sporting treatment.
Iran are in Group G alongside Egypt, Belgium and New Zealand, making the dispute especially relevant ahead of matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The matter remains under follow-up between the Iranian federation, organisers and FIFA, with clear political sensitivity surrounding Iran’s participation in US-hosted fixtures.