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Jun 03, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Iran’s World Cup Squad Departs for Mexico Despite US Visa Uncertainty

AI Summary
Iran’s national football team will leave for its World Cup base camp in Mexico on June 6, even though visas for the United States remain unresolved. The move comes amid heightened geopolitical friction, including U.S. warnings about IRGC‑linked personnel in the delegation.

Iran’s Squad Sets Off for Mexico Amid Visa Uncertainty

Iran’s delegation announced on Wednesday that it will depart Antalya for Tijuana at 15:20 (1220 GMT) on Saturday, June 6 and arrive in Mexico at 01:30 am (0730 GMT) on Sunday, June 7. The team will travel via Spain before joining its World Cup base camp.

Visa Timeline, Recent Friendlies, and Upcoming Fixtures

  • June 6‑7: Departure from Turkey, arrival in Mexico.
  • June 8: Expected receipt of Mexican visas (according to federation chief Mehdi Taj).
  • June 9‑10: Anticipated issuance of U.S. visas.
  • June 11‑19: World Cup matches in the United States.

Since the start of the U.S.–Israel war on Iran (Feb 28), the squad has played three friendlies in two Antalya camps, recording one loss to Nigeria and victories over Costa Rica and The Gambia. A final warm‑up against Mali in Turkiye will be held behind closed doors.

Geopolitical Tensions Cast Shadow Over Iran’s Campaign

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Senate lawmakers that the United States will not allow individuals with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to “embed” in the World Cup delegation. The warning follows a April incident where an Iranian football delegation, including Mehdi Taj, was turned back at Toronto Pearson Airport despite holding valid visas, citing “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration officials. Canada has listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization, and the Iranian federation has sought guarantees from FIFA that the U.S. will not insult the IRGC during the tournament.

What Lies Ahead for Team Melli in North America

If visas are secured in time, Iran will face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and June 21, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Continued diplomatic friction could affect squad morale and logistical planning, especially if U.S. authorities enforce the IRGC restriction. Analysts suggest that any delay or restriction may force the federation to seek alternative arrangements, potentially jeopardising Iran’s competitive preparation for Group G.