Iran has accused the United States of politically motivated interference after claiming visas were denied to several key members of its football team’s support and administrative staff ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While US officials confirmed all players and essential support personnel had been granted entry, Iranian authorities said around 15 officials, including senior football federation figures, were barred from travelling.
The dispute comes as Iran prepares for group matches in Los Angeles, California and Seattle, with the team based in Mexico and required to enter and leave the US on match days.
Tehran has called on FIFA to intervene, while Washington has stressed security concerns and said individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would not be permitted to enter the country.
