Iran's World Cup Ambitions Derailed by Visa Limbo
As U.S. Immigration Delays, Iranian Soccer Team Trains in Turkey, Eyes Backup Plans
robin cc | May 31, 2026
ISTANBUL, Turkey
The Iranian national soccer team's World Cup dreams have been put on hold due to a prolonged visa delay, forcing the players to train in Turkey while making contingency plans for a potential last-minute entry into the United States.
Visa Limbo
The team, awaiting visas to enter the U.S. for the World Cup, has been practicing in Turkey since April, with players expressing frustration over the prolonged wait. "We're in limbo, and we don't know what's going to happen," said Iranian soccer player, Alireza Jahanbakhsh. The team's coach, Carlos Queiroz, has been working with the players to maintain their fitness levels, but the uncertainty surrounding their visa status has taken a toll on the team's morale.
As the team waits for the U.S. government to process their visas, they are also exploring backup plans in case they are unable to enter the country. According to sources, the team is considering alternative destinations in South America or Europe, but no final decisions have been made. "We're preparing for every possible scenario, but we're also hoping that the situation will be resolved soon," said Queiroz.
Visa Delays and International Pressure
The visa delays have sparked international concern, with human rights groups and sports organizations calling on the U.S. government to expedite the processing of the team's visas. The Iranian government has also expressed its frustration with the delays, with officials accusing the U.S. of politicizing the visa process. "This is not just about soccer; it's about human rights and the right to participate in international events," said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Saeed Khatibzadeh.
The visa delays have also raised questions about the U.S. government's commitment to hosting the World Cup, with some critics accusing the administration of using the event as a tool for political leverage. "The U.S. government has a responsibility to ensure that all teams, regardless of their nationality, are able to participate in the World Cup without undue delay or obstruction," said a spokesperson for the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
The Human Cost of Visa Delays
The visa delays have had a significant impact on the team's players and staff, who have been forced to endure a prolonged period of uncertainty. "It's been tough on the players, who are eager to compete at the highest level," said Queiroz. The team's players have also expressed frustration over the delays, with some taking to social media to express their concerns. "We're not just players; we're human beings who want to participate in the World Cup," said Iranian soccer player, Sardar Azmoun.
The Next Move
As the team waits for the U.S. government to process their visas, they are also preparing for the possibility of a last-minute entry into the country. According to sources, the team is working with U.S. immigration officials to expedite the visa process, but no guarantees have been made. "We're doing everything we can to ensure that the team is able to participate in the World Cup, but we need the U.S. government to work with us to make it happen," said Queiroz.