Iran’s World Cup Preparations Amid Challenges

Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s soccer federation, revealed that his organization has been cooperating with FIFA to secure visas for the Iranian national team to participate in the upcoming World Cup. The tournament begins next week in North America.

Iran’s soccer team was seen at a farewell ceremony in Tehran before heading to the 2026 World Cup. This preparation is occurring despite the ongoing war and tense international relations, casting doubt over visa security for the team.

Taj discussed these challenges in a recent interview. He acknowledged that summits have been held between Iranian authorities and top soccer officials as they navigate these uncertainties.

Taj has expressed his viewpoint on the matter. He places responsibility for the issues squarely on the United States. Facing ongoing tensions, decisions were made with FIFA to relocate the team’s base to Mexico instead of the United States. This arrangement aims to reduce the team’s stay in the U.S.

Communication with Taj revealed that Iran was the third team to qualify for the World Cup. This tournament is historic, with 48 teams spanning across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The team’s plans were adjusted. They moved their base from the U.S. to Tijuana after discussions in Turkey, a country where the team has been training for the past month.