Iran demands guarantees for World Cup participation
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- Iranian Football Federation announced it will compete in the 2026 World Cup only if FIFA and the host nations grant ten specific conditions, including visa guarantees for all team members.
- Mehdi Taj was denied entry to Canada before the FIFA Congress, prompting the federation to submit the ten conditions.
- Iran demands that players, coaches, and officials who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps receive visas, despite the IRGC being designated a terrorist organization by Canada and the US.
- Iran also seeks assurances that its flag and national anthem will be respected and that security will be enhanced at airports, hotels, and stadiums throughout the tournament.
- Marco Rubio said Iranian players are welcome at the World Cup but warned that individuals linked to the IRGC may still face US entry restrictions.
Why it matters: If FIFA and host nations honor Iran’s visa and security demands by the June 11 kickoff, the Iranian squad can compete; otherwise the team risks exclusion, undermining tournament credibility and straining US‑Iran diplomatic overtures.
