Iran’s football federation announced Saturday that the nation will “definitely” compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while demanding that host countries address Tehran’s concerns about player travel and treatment.
Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran president Mehdi Taj stated that “All players and technical staff, especially those who served their military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, should be granted visas without problems,” according to Iranian media reports.
The request comes as Iran maintains a delicate ceasefire with the United States following military conflicts that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, and while Iranian citizens face travel restrictions implemented during the Trump presidency.
Speaking to the state-run IRNA news agency on Friday, Taj outlined conditions for Iran’s participation, including visa guarantees, security assurances, and proper treatment of Iranian personnel. He emphasized that the Islamic Republic would compete “without retreating from our beliefs, culture and convictions.”
The visa issue gained prominence after Canadian officials blocked Taj’s entry last month prior to a FIFA Congress, allegedly due to his connections to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, which both the United States and Canada classify as a terrorist organization.
Taj has consistently sought FIFA’s commitment to respectful treatment of Iranian officials, athletes, and national symbols throughout the tournament.
The visa concerns could impact key player Mehdi Taremi, Iran’s team captain and striker, who fulfilled his required military duty with the Guard. Iran’s conscription system randomly assigns service members to various branches including police, army, or the Revolutionary Guard.
Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, with their opening match scheduled against New Zealand in Inglewood, near Los Angeles.
The Iranian national team has secured World Cup berths in four straight tournaments and seven total appearances, though they have never progressed beyond group play. Currently holding the 21st world ranking, Iran suffered only one defeat during Asian qualification rounds.
