Iran’s national soccer team has received approval for U.S. visas, enabling them to participate in the upcoming World Cup matches in California. This development comes as the team navigates challenges related to Iran’s ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States. The team had initially planned to train in Tucson, Arizona, but visa processing issues prompted a move to Tijuana, Mexico, close to the California border.
Visa Approvals and Challenges
According to U.S. officials, all players on the Iranian team have been approved for visas, with the process of receiving them underway. Additionally, visas have been issued for coaches, trainers, and some support staff. However, some applicants associated with the team were reportedly rejected for attempting to obtain visas under false pretenses. The officials, who spoke anonymously, did not specify when the team’s passports would be returned, but indicated it could happen as soon as Friday or Saturday.
The Iranian squad has been preparing for the World Cup at a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, before moving to Tijuana. The team has already secured visas from Mexico’s embassy in Ankara, allowing them to train near the U.S. border.
Upcoming Matches and Political Context
Iran is set to play its first two World Cup games in Inglewood, California, facing New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21. They will then travel to Seattle to compete against Egypt on June 26. If both Iran and the U.S. advance by placing second in their respective groups, they could meet in the round of 32 on July 3 in Arlington, Texas.
In March, former President Donald Trump expressed concerns about Iran’s participation in the tournament, citing potential risks to players’ safety. Despite these concerns, Iran’s national team asserted its right to compete. The Iranian sports minister had previously stated that participation might not be possible, but the country’s soccer federation continued preparations, emphasizing the importance of securing visas for all team members, including those with military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack praised the U.S. Embassy in Ankara for its role in processing the visas, highlighting the unifying power of sports. “Sports transcends borders, and we look forward to welcoming competitors and fans from around the world,” Barrack stated.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
