U.S. Denies Entry to Iranian Football Officials for World Cup Draw

The U.S. has refused entry to an Iranian delegation, including the Iranian Football Federation (FFI) President Mehdi Taj and Head Coach Amir Ghalenoei, preventing their attendance at the World Cup draw set for December 5 in Washington. The ban, stemming from broader U.S.-Iran political tensions and travel restrictions imposed under President Donald Trump, has raised concerns about the participation of Iran’s national team in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. While players and coaching staff are expected to face fewer issues, FFI officials, reporters, and fans could be affected. The FFI is now appealing to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn the ban, hoping Iran’s matches will at least be held outside the U.S.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale