Iran’s football federation has demanded visa assurances for players and staff connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, creating fresh political tension before the tournament begins in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The issue has become one of the biggest off-field controversies surrounding the upcoming World Cup.
The Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) confirmed that Iran’s national football team, popularly known as Team Melli, will “definitely” participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, federation president Mehdi Taj said Iran expects guarantees from host nations that all players, coaches, and officials — including those who completed military service with the IRGC — will receive visas without problems.
The demand comes at a sensitive time because both the United States and Canada officially classify the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. This has raised concerns over whether individuals linked to the IRGC could face travel restrictions or visa denials during the tournament.
According to Iranian media reports, Mehdi Taj said FIFA must ensure that Iranian players and officials are treated with respect during the competition. Iran has also reportedly requested guarantees regarding the safety of the delegation, respectful treatment of the Iranian flag and national anthem, and protection from political discrimination during the tournament.
The controversy increased after Canadian authorities recently denied entry to Mehdi Taj ahead of a FIFA Congress in Vancouver because of his alleged links to the IRGC. Iranian officials described the move as disrespectful and raised the matter directly with FIFA leadership. FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom later reportedly expressed regret over the incident and invited Iranian football officials for further discussions in Zurich.
One major concern for Iran involves national team captain Mehdi Taremi, who reportedly completed mandatory military service connected to the Revolutionary Guard. In Iran, military service is compulsory for many men, and conscripts can be assigned to different branches, including the army, police, or IRGC. Iranian officials argue that such service should not become a reason to deny athletes entry into the tournament.
The political situation surrounding Iran’s World Cup participation has become more complicated due to rising tensions between Tehran and Washington earlier this year. Reports said Iran remains under travel restrictions introduced by the Trump administration, while diplomatic relations between both countries remain strained following recent regional conflicts and ceasefire negotiations.
Despite the tensions, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reportedly confirmed that Iran will participate in the tournament. Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Team Melli is scheduled to open its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Inglewood, California.
Football analysts say the situation highlights the growing challenge FIFA faces in separating politics from international sport. While FIFA promotes the World Cup under the slogan “Football Unites the World,” political disputes, immigration laws, and international security concerns continue to affect preparations for the 2026 tournament.
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