By R. Alexander Núñez
The Iran national team is getting closer to confirming its presence in the FIFA World Cupafter a meeting held between leaders of the Iranian federation and authorities of FIFA in Istanbul. The meeting took place on Saturday and was focused on resolving operational aspects related to the tournament that will begin on June 11 in United States, Mexico and Canada.
Soccer’s governing body was optimistic about the participation of the Asian team. The general secretary of FIFA, Mattias Grafstromassured that the conversations were positive and that there is coordination between both parties to specify the Iranian presence in the contest.
“We have had an excellent meeting, a constructive meeting together with the Iranian Football Federation. “I believe we are working closely together and we look forward with great enthusiasm to welcoming you to the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” Grafström stated in the statement published by the entity.
Visas and logistics in the midst of the political context
Iran’s participation comes amid political tensions with the United States, one of the host countries. Although the conflict between both governments has generated uncertainty, the team plans to travel to Türkiye in the coming days to hold a previous concentration before moving to US territory.
Its debut is scheduled for June 16. The Iranian team will play the group stage against the teams of New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, with games scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.
In this context, the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, indicated that there will be no problems authorizing the entry of the players. However, he noted that some technical staff could face entry restrictions if they have ties to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.
The conditions posed by Iran
The Asian country’s federation stated on Sunday that it will participate in the World Cup as long as ten conditions are respected. Among them are the guarantee of visa issuance, security for the delegation and respect for its national symbols, such as the flag and anthemin the face of possible demonstrations by Iranian opponents residing in the United States.
Grafström once again highlighted the good tone of the meeting in Istanbul. “I am very happy that we were able to have this very positive exchange; both the Iranian Football Federation and FIFA are very satisfied with the meeting and excited to welcome the Iranian national team in the USA, Canada and Mexico,” he said.
While logistical and diplomatic efforts continue, FIFA remains confident that Iran will be present at the 2026 World Cup.
Keep reading:
· Cristiano Ronaldo ends up frustrated and leaves before the award ceremony after losing the Asian Champions final
· Concern at PSG due to Dembélé’s injury two weeks before the Champions League final
· In an emotional farewell, Griezmann apologized to Atlético de Madrid for leaving for Barcelona
