Iran’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has been dealt a fresh setback after midfielder Mehdi Torabi’s US visa expired following the team’s opening match of the tournament, according to GiveMeSport.
The outlet reports that Torabi’s single-entry visa lapsed immediately after Iran’s 2-2 draw against New Zealand, leaving the Iranian Football Federation scrambling to secure new travel documentation ahead of the team’s remaining group-stage fixtures.
Citing Iranian state news agency IRNA, GiveMeSport reports that Torabi was granted only a single-entry visa for the opening fixture at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Most of his teammates are understood to have received multiple-entry visas, allowing them greater flexibility as Iran navigates its unusual travel arrangements during the tournament.
Ongoing Travel Issues for Iran
According to GiveMeSport, Iran has encountered a series of visa and travel-related complications throughout the World Cup. The team was forced to base its preparations in Mexico before the tournament, requiring players and staff to travel into the United States for matches.
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The report states that Iran travelled to Los Angeles for the match against New Zealand before returning to Mexico immediately afterward.
GiveMeSport also references reporting from RTÉ, which claimed that around 15 members of the Iranian delegation were denied US visas. RTÉ further reported that Somali referee Omar Artan was refused entry to the United States, while Iranian captain Mehdi Taremi and a member of the team’s staff experienced difficulties at Los Angeles airport after the New Zealand game.
FIFA President Steps In
GiveMeSport reports that FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the Iranian dressing room following the draw with New Zealand and has been attempting to assist with the ongoing visa issues affecting the team.
Speaking about Infantino’s efforts, Taremi said:
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“For sure, he wants to try to help us, but it’s about other things too. You know, everyone knows. (I don’t) need to mention that, because you know where we are.”
His comments highlighted the wider political and diplomatic tensions surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament.
Iran are scheduled to face Belgium in their second Group G match in Los Angeles before taking on Egypt in Seattle in their final group-stage fixture. With uncertainty surrounding Torabi’s availability and continuing logistical challenges affecting the delegation, Team Melli face a difficult path as they attempt to progress in the World Cup.
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