Idman.biz
The President of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, has announced that Tehran has set a number of conditions and demanded guarantees from the countries hosting the 2026 World Cup to ensure the national team's participation in the event.
Idman.Biz reports that these conditions include visa issuance, respectful treatment of staff, and the presence of the Iranian flag and national anthem. Tehran also requires a high level of security at airports, hotels, and on roads leading to the stadiums where the team will play.
"We will participate in the tournament, but we will not give up our beliefs, culture, or views. All players and coaching staff members, especially those who have completed their military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, must receive visas without any problems," Le Parisien quoted Taj as saying.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has assured that Iranian footballers will be warmly welcomed, but warned that the US may not allow some members of the Iranian delegation affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to enter the country.
The Iranian national team has qualified for the 2026 World Cup and is placed in Group G, where they will face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. All three of the team's matches are scheduled to take place in the United States.
The 2026 World Cup will be held next summer in three countries - the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Argentina is the current world champion.
