The US Department of State has decided not to grant visas to members of the Iranian football delegation. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
This decision jeopardizes the possibility of the Iranian delegation’s personal participation in the draw ceremony for the 2026 World Cup. The ceremony was planned to be held on December 5 at the Kennedy Center located in the Columbia District of Washington, the US capital.
Among those denied visas are the president of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Toj, the national team head coach Amir Ghalenoei, and seven other officials. This decision is based on an executive order issued by the US President earlier this year, which includes entry restrictions for citizens of 12 countries.
These restrictions effectively made it impossible for the delegation to attend the ceremony in person. The Iranian side is preparing to appeal to FIFA to resolve the situation.
Options for remote participation or partial attendance through diplomatic channels are being discussed. Until an official decision is made, the Iranian delegation’s trip to Washington remains uncertain.
However, the visa issue will not affect the draw results. The ceremony will take place as scheduled, and federations can follow the process through technical means.
Nevertheless, the personal presence of delegation members in the hall is important not only for protocol but also for strengthening relations and holding working meetings with organizers. Experts emphasize that this situation once again highlights the blurred line between sports and politics.
Additional comments from FIFA and the US are expected in the coming days, while Iran continues to defend its position.
