Iran’s national football team is facing reported logistical challenges ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following visa-related developments affecting members of its delegation, according to statements from officials and media reports.

The team has been placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with matches scheduled in the United States, including cities such as Los Angeles and Seattle.

According to Iranian football officials, all 26 players in the squad have received U.S. visas, reportedly processed through the U.S. embassy in Turkey in early June. However, reports suggest that several members of the team’s backroom and administrative staff were not granted visas.

Iranian officials have stated that individuals affected include members of the football federation’s senior management and technical support staff. They have described the visa outcome as raising concerns and have called for clarification and possible intervention from FIFA.

U.S. authorities, as cited in media reports, have maintained that visas were issued to players and essential sporting personnel, while some other applications were declined due to security-related assessments. These claims have not been independently verified in detail.

Following the reported visa issues, the team is said to have adjusted its logistical arrangements, including shifting its base camp to a location outside the United States near the border region, with plans for match-day travel into the U.S. for fixtures.

The situation comes amid broader geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States and has drawn attention due to its potential impact on team preparation and logistics ahead of the tournament.

FIFA has not issued a detailed public statement specifically addressing the reported visa concerns at the time of reporting.