The Iranian national football team, which has confirmed its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, is still facing visa issues with the U.S. and experiencing training difficulties ahead of the tournament, as reported by Iran’s ambassador to Mexico on Thursday.
Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, made this statement during his visit to Tijuana in northwestern Mexico, where the Iranian team has relocated its base camp, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP). The team had initially planned to establish their camp in Tucson, Arizona.
During a press conference, Ambassador Pasandideh criticized the U.S., referring to it as the northern country, for failing to fulfill its responsibilities as the host nation in welcoming the Iranian team.
It’s uncertain whether they will issue visas to the players, he added.
Pasandideh further stated that they’re are not competing in the World Cup on a level playing field, explaining that due to the conflict in Iran, the team has been unable to conduct training sessions as extensively as they should have.
AFP reported that Iranian diplomats visited the stadium in Tijuana where the team is currently training, citing sources from local soccer clubs.
Earlier, Iran had suggested the possibility of withdrawing from the World Cup due to tensions with the U.S., but their participation was ultimately confirmed following efforts by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to encourage the Iranian team.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ is scheduled to begin on June 11. Iran’s group stage matches are set to take place against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 27.