KUALA LUMPUR – The Iran Football Federation has confirmed that the national team will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported.
Iran’s state news agency IRNA said the federation has finalised its decision and completed all necessary visa procedures for the tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19.
The national team, having earned qualification on merit, is continuing preparations for its Group G fixtures, which will see Iran face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
According to Iranian media outlet ISNA, the federation has outlined 10 conditions for participation, largely focused on travel, security and treatment of its delegation. These reportedly include guarantees that players and technical staff will receive visas without complications and will not face questioning by US immigration authorities.
The federation also requested facilitation for journalists and supporters, enhanced security at airports, hotels and stadiums, and that stadium displays be restricted to Iran’s official flag. Additional conditions include assurances that Iran’s national anthem will be played without interruption and that press conferences remain strictly focused on football matters.
Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj affirmed that the country would “definitely” participate in the tournament while urging organisers to address Tehran’s concerns.
“All players and technical staff, especially those who completed their military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, should be granted visas without problems,” Taj was quoted as saying by Iranian media.
He added that Iran would attend the tournament “without retreating from our beliefs, culture and convictions”, while continuing to seek assurances over visas, security arrangements and respect for Iranian symbols and officials.
The statements come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and US travel restrictions affecting Iranian nationals. Iranian officials have previously highlighted visa issues, including an incident in which Taj was reportedly denied entry to Canada ahead of a FIFA Congress.
Concerns over visa eligibility for individuals with ties to Iran’s mandatory military service could also affect key players, including national team captain and striker Mehdi Taremi.
Ranked 21st in the world, Iran has qualified for seven World Cups, four consecutively, but has never progressed beyond the group stage. The team suffered only one defeat during its Asian qualifying campaign. – May 10, 2026