The United States of America’s State Department has denied visas to the Iranian delegation to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage draw in Washington DC on December 5, 2025, Goal.com has reported.
The news follows an executive order issued earlier this year by Donald Trump, which banned 12 countries from entering the United States of America including Iran who have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The list of those denied visas by the USA includes PSSI president Mehdi Taj, national team coach Amir Ghalenoei, and seven other officials, according to federation spokesman Amir-Mehdi Alavi.
FIFA addresses growing calls to suspend Israel from football over Gaza conflict
Iran’s PSSI plans to ask Gianni Infantino to intervene because Iran is one of 12 countries banned from entering the United States.
Iran, whose federation is taking the matter to FIFA, secured World Cup qualification in March following a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan.
Meanwhile, the “Team Melli” of Iran qualified for the 2026 FIFA World in United States of America, Canada and Mexico following a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan in March 2025.
JE
Watch the latest episode of Sports Check with Boxer Jacob Dickson below:
