Iranian FA Seeks FIFA Guarantees Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj says the country will meet with FIFA officials in the coming days to seek assurances over Iran’s treatment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States.
Taj revealed that he is expected to hold talks with FIFA president Gianni Infantino within the next three or four days as concerns grow over visa issues and the treatment of Iranian officials and players during the tournament.
The issue intensified after Canada, one of the World Cup co-hosts alongside the United States and Mexico, reportedly denied Taj entry last week because of his alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Speaking to Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Taj insisted Iran would only participate in the tournament if FIFA could guarantee respect for the country and its institutions.
“We will tell FIFA what our expectations are. If they can address them, we will definitely participate,” Taj said.
He added that Iran would reconsider its involvement if there were continued signs of disrespect toward the nation or its delegation.
The stance also received backing from Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei, who stressed that FIFA and the host nations have a responsibility to provide visas and necessary arrangements for all participating teams without political interference.
Iran’s participation in the World Cup has faced uncertainty in recent months following rising tensions in the Middle East after military strikes involving the United States and Israel earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei outlined the team’s preparation plans for the tournament.
Ghalenoei said a provisional 30-man squad would be named this week before being reduced to the final 26-player list after a training camp in Turkey.
The coach added that Iran hopes to arrive in the United States 14 days before the tournament begins and is still searching for friendly matches after several planned opponents reportedly pulled out.
Iran are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15, with the team set to base itself in Tucson, Arizona, during the competition.
