Iranian sports minister slams World Cup visa chaos, vows to halt matches over offensive ‘flags or symbols’

Iran Criticises World Cup Visa Restrictions

Iranian Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali said it was ‘unprofessional’ that officials and team staff have reportedly been denied visas for the World Cup, during a press conference in Tehran on Tuesday.

“These obstructions, which have existed from the very beginning, are completely unprofessional,” he stated after reports that 15 officials and team staff were denied visas.

Responding to a journalist’s question regarding the visa issue, Donyamali said, “Almost all the obstructions they were causing have largely been resolved. Regarding the visas, I am telling you now that it will be resolved.”

Concerns Over Conduct at Tournament

He continued that the Iranian team would ‘definitely’ halt matches if offensive flags, symbols, or ‘slogans’ were detected at the World Cup, emphasising that the organisers are responsible for addressing these matters.

The Iranian Sports Minister also demanded ‘top-tier hosting conditions’ must be provided, noting that the United States must ‘ensure good conditions’ for his country’s team.

Donyamali added that the Iranian national team players are ‘highly motivated’, despite the obstacles they have faced.

Team Establishes Base in Mexico

The Iranian national team arrived in the Mexican city of Tijuana on Sunday, where it set up its headquarters for the 2026 World Cup, after being unable to stay in the United States due to visa restrictions. In contrast, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she had ‘no problem’ with hosting the Iranian team.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11 and runs until July 19, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.