Last-minute visas and moving training camp: Iran's road to the World Cup

Iran's participation has become one of the most complex stories of the tournament.

Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is mired in diplomatic tension due to the ongoing U.S.-Iran war and American travel restrictions. Despite Iran's request to have its matches relocated to Canada or Mexico, FIFA mandated that all three of Iran’s group stage matches be held on U.S. soil, creating significant logistical and diplomatic challenges. The Iranian national team had to move its training camp from Arizona to Mexico shortly before the tournament due to visa issues. While players and close personnel are theoretically exempt from the U.S. travel ban, some officials were still denied visas. Iranian fans, including those living outside Iran, are entirely barred from entering the U.S. for the matches.

A number of players submitted visa applications in person at the US embassy in Ankara ahead of their training camp. Iran’s football team have attended visa appointments in Turkiye ahead of the World Cup, with the whole squad applying for Canadian visas and some players also submitting applications for entry into the United States. The Iranian football federation vice-president said on May 20, 2026 he was "very confident" in FIFA's protocols as the team prepare to play at the World Cup in the United States. The players are to stay several weeks before heading to the World Cup that is being co-hosted by the US, which began bombing Iran on February 28 alongside Israel, sparking a wider war in the Middle East.

Iran will participate in the 2026 North America Central America World Cup after numerous difficulties. The Iran national football team has obtained U.S. visas to participate in the 2026 FIFA North America Central America World Cup. Amidst war and diplomatic conflicts, FIFA's emphasis on 'full participation guarantee' has become a reality. U.S. ABC News, citing a U.S. government official on the 6th, local time, reported that Iranian team players have been approved for visas to enter the U.S. and compete in the World Cup. The team is currently undergoing training in Antalya, Türkiye, and completed the visa process at the local U.S. embassy. U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Tom Barrack also confirmed the visa issuance through SNS. He stated, "Employees at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara excellently handled the visa process for the Iranian national football team," adding, "Sports transcend borders."