Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jun 6: Members of Iran's national football team have been granted visas to enter the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending weeks of uncertainty over their participation amid ongoing tensions between the two countries.

A White House official confirmed that the visas were approved just 10 days before Iran's opening Group G match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The approval came after Iranian officials had earlier expressed concerns that the squad had still not received the necessary travel documents.

The visa issue had prompted Iran to relocate its World Cup training base from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. The team is expected to remain based in Mexico and travel to the United States for its group-stage matches.

Iran will face New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles before taking on Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

According to US officials, visas have been issued for players, coaches and essential support staff, although reports indicate that some members of the wider delegation may still face restrictions because of concerns related to links with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The visa approval removes a major obstacle for the Iranian team and clears the way for its participation in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The development comes against the backdrop of strained diplomatic relations between Washington and Tehran, making Iran's participation one of the most closely watched aspects of the upcoming World Cup.