“Representatives of the Iranian national team arrived in Washington, despite the denial of a visa to the president of the federation and strict migration restrictions.”, — write: football.ua
Representatives of the Iranian national team arrived in Washington, despite the denial of a visa to the president of the federation and strict migration restrictions.
Getty Images 04 December 2025, 21:27
The country’s participation was previously in question due to threats to boycott the event amid a visa dispute with the United States.
The Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI) submitted nine applications for US visas for its delegates, but only received approval for four of them. Federation President Mehdi Taj was among those who were refused entry.
The official previously said he had spoken to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, warning that no Iranian representative would attend the ceremony unless all visas were issued.
Despite the ultimatum, the boycott did not take place. The head coach of the Iranian national team, Amir Galenoi, and the head of FFIRI’s international relations department, Omid Jamali, have already arrived in the United States.
It is expected that other members of the delegation may join them. Visa problems are associated with tense relations between the countries and strict restrictions from the United States.
In June, President Donald Trump signed an executive order banning the entry of citizens of 12 countries, including Iran, citing national security concerns. However, the document provides for exceptions for athletes and coaching staff arriving for major tournaments, such as the 2026 World Championships and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Iran successfully qualified for their seventh ever World Cup and fourth in a row. The draw for the tournament will take place on Friday at 19:00 Kyiv time.