In a significant U-turn, Iran's national football delegation will attend Friday's 2026 World Cup draw in Washington D.C., having initially threatened a full boycott over a dispute with U.S. visa authorities.
Diplomatic Hurdles and a Threatened Boycott
The controversy began when the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) applied for nine visas for its officials to travel to the United States for the prestigious ceremony. According to reports from Iranian media, the U.S. granted only four of those requests. Among those approved was the visa for head coach Amir Ghalenoei.
However, the U.S. authorities rejected the visa application for Mehdi Taj, the president of the FFIRI. This refusal prompted the federation to declare it would boycott the event entirely, with local reports stating they would send no one to the glitzy ceremony in protest.
Long-Standing Tensions and Travel Bans
The incident highlights the ongoing diplomatic friction between the two nations. The United States maintains long-standing strict visa restrictions on Iranian citizens, citing political and security concerns. Iran remains on a U.S. 'travel ban' list, originally instituted during the Trump administration.
That administration had labelled Iran as 'the source of significant terrorism around the world' and criticised its record on accepting deported nationals. These restrictions also mean that Iranian supporters are set to be unable to attend their team's matches in the U.S. during the tournament itself.
A Late Reversal for the World Cup Draw
Despite the earlier strong stance, the FFIRI has now seemingly backed down. Iranian media confirmed that head coach Amir Ghalenoei and Omid Jamali, head of the federation's international relations department, will represent Iran at the draw on Friday.
The FFIRI could not be reached for immediate comment on the reversal. The draw ceremony is expected to be attended by a host of global figures, including former President Donald Trump, alongside stars from sports, politics, and entertainment.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Tournament
Iran will compete in their fourth consecutive World Cup finals when the expanded 48-team tournament is held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, starting on June 11, 2026. FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani has previously given assurances that all qualifying teams, including Iran, will be allowed to enter the host countries to play, regardless of the wider visa situation for fans.
This last-minute resolution averts a diplomatic spectacle at one of world football's key promotional events, though it underscores the complex political backdrop against which the 2026 World Cup will be played.
