Iran winger Mehdi Torabi has been granted a new multiple-entry visa after his previous single-entry visa expired following Iran's opening World Cup match against New Zealand. The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) confirmed the development on Tuesday, resolving a crisis that threatened to send the player home.
Visa Complications for Iran Squad
Torabi was issued a single-entry US visa instead of the multiple-entry visas given to his teammates. After Iran's 2-2 draw with New Zealand on June 16, where Torabi was an unused substitute, his visa expired. The FFIRI scrambled to secure a new visa, and after coordination with FIFA, a multiple-entry visa was issued.
In a statement, the FFIRI said: "Following efforts by the Football Federation and coordination with FIFA, the player was issued a new multiple-entry visa today. With this visa now secured, Torabi will have no issues accompanying Iran’s national team in its upcoming matches and will be available to travel with the squad throughout the remainder of the tournament."
Broader Visa Issues for Iran Delegation
Iran's delegation has faced multiple visa complications amid strained US-Iran relations. The team is based in Mexico due to security concerns, crossing the border for matches. Around 15 FFIRI officials, including team supervisor Mahdi Mohammad Nabi, were denied US visas. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei described his squad as the "most oppressed team" at the World Cup, citing restrictions such as being told to leave the US immediately after their opener.
"After the game they said to us 'you have to leave immediately'," Ghalenoei said. "We've been asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana and we are really troubled by that. They are forcing us to go back early. They are making the situation more and more difficult, more hurdles, but we're not going to let that stop us from doing our best."
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi and a coaching staff member also faced difficulties at Los Angeles airport after the New Zealand match.
Upcoming Matches
Iran is scheduled to face Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday, followed by Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Torabi's new visa ensures he can travel with the squad for these crucial Group G clashes.
