<div><img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2026/06/05/multimedia/05int-worldcup-iran-visas-photo-wzbk/05int-worldcup-iran-visas-photo-wzbk-facebookJumbo.jpg" class="ff-og-image-inserted"></div><p id="article-summary" class="css-1r45aqf e1wiw3jv0">Iran’s national soccer team has received visas to enter the United States ahead of the World Cup, after months of uncertainty about participation. The visas cover players and essential support staff, allowing the team to participate in all three group-stage matches.</p><section name="articleBody" class="meteredContent css-6wov7h" data-paywall-inert><div class="css-s99gbd StoryBodyCompanionColumn" data-testid="companionColumn-0"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">The visas were issued for the athletes and necessary support personnel, with more than a dozen members of the broader staff and federation officials reportedly not approved to travel. The Iran federation president also reportedly faced visa denial.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Officials said the decision to issue the visas was handled to enable Iran to compete, amid international diplomacy efforts surrounding the tournament.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Preparations had included training camps abroad as negotiations continued.</p></div></div><div data-testid="Dropzone-1"></div><div class="css-s99gbd StoryBodyCompanionColumn" data-testid="companionColumn-1"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Four officials with direct knowledge of the visa status confirmed the approvals but spoke on condition of anonymity.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Some officials indicated the visa process aimed to prevent abuse and ensure security, not simply expedite entry for athletes.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Iran’s team had previously reorganized its World Cup base arrangements, shifting from Tucson to Tijuana in coordination with FIFA to minimize time spent in the United States.</p></div></div><div data-testid="Dropzone-3"></div><div class="css-s99gbd StoryBodyCompanionColumn" data-testid="companionColumn-2"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">The team will travel to the United States at least two days before matches for media duties and practice at tournament venues. Earlier discussions noted restrictions on entry for individuals linked to certain entities.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">Iran has expressed frustration over the handling of the team in the buildup, with domestic league activities suspended following regional tensions. Some officials have called for fair play and equal opportunities for participation.</p><p class="css-ac37hb evys1bk0">The Iran federation president has faced past travel restrictions and visa denials, reflecting broader tensions between Iran and Western countries surrounding the tournament.</p></div></div><div data-testid="Dropzone-3"></div><p><strong>Adblock test</strong> </p></section>
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