Iran has called on the United States to fulfill its international obligations regarding the 2026 FIFA World Cup and ensure the entry of its national team.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmaeil Baghaei, made these remarks during a press briefing.
The spokesperson stated that as a host nation for the World Cup, the United States is obligated to issue visas to the players of the Iranian national football team, regardless of existing political differences. Baghaei noted that Tehran is making "all possible efforts" to ensure that no obstacles arise for the team's participation in the tournament, which will be held across North America.
The Iranian official emphasized that Washington bears a "clear and specific obligation" to grant visas to Iranian athletes "without considering political issues." Baghaei added that Iran would utilize all available means to secure the team's presence at the event. Furthermore, he called on FIFA to take steps to protect its reputation, asserting that recent developments regarding the Iranian team are "unworthy of FIFA."
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Under FIFA regulations, host nations are generally required to facilitate the entry of all qualifying teams and their delegations. However, diplomatic tensions between Tehran and Washington have frequently impacted sporting exchanges. US President Donald Trump, who assumed office in January 2025, has maintained a firm stance on national security and visa protocols, adding a layer of complexity to the logistical preparations for the upcoming global tournament.
