Iran’s national football team faces US visa concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s Football Federation, said some players and staff might not get visas. Therefore, the federation is preparing backup plans to keep the team ready. The problem appeared after Saeed Alhoei, a member of the coaching staff, was refused a US visa. Officials said his military service location caused the refusal.
Taj warned that other players with similar backgrounds could face the same problem. As a result, the federation has already started preparing replacements. “If for any reason they tell a player not to come, we must have replacements ready,” Taj said. This shows how serious US visa concerns are for the team.
Taj also criticized FIFA. He said the organization could have acted more strongly and should have pushed the US to ease visa rules. Meanwhile, Iran is actively preparing for World Cup friendlies. Taj confirmed that talks with Portugal are underway for two matches in June. In addition, the team is considering games with Spain, Qatar, Scotland, or Iceland. Spain and Egypt are expected to travel to Qatar, which may create extra scheduling opportunities for Iran.
The team recently visited a training camp located 56 kilometers from Los Angeles. Taj hopes that visa issues will not block access to the camp. Fans living outside Iran can buy World Cup tickets. However, supporters inside Iran are unlikely to get US visas, which could reduce attendance.
The federation is staying proactive. They are planning friendlies, checking training camps, and preparing replacements. These steps ensure the team is ready despite US visa concerns. Overall, US visa concerns could challenge the team, but Iran is taking strong measures to stay prepared for the 2026 World Cup.