WANA (Oct 22) – Amid continued US government delays in issuing visas for nine members of Iran’s football delegation to attend the World Cup draw, ESPN, the American media, reported that President Trump’s travel ban, which applies to 12 countries, explicitly exempts “athletes and team staff participating in the World Cup.”

 

According to FIFA regulations, the US President has no authority to prevent players or coaching staff from participating in the tournament.

 

Earlier, Alavi, spokesperson for the Iranian Football Federation, had confirmed that the US government had obstructed visa issuance for Amir Ghalenoei, Mehdi Taj, and seven other officials for attending the draw, prompting the federation to engage FIFA for resolution.

 

ESPN emphasized that “Trump does not have the ability to ban Iran’s national team players,” and their visas will be issued for participation in the 2026 World Cup.

 

The report also noted that FIFA President Gianni Infantino has assured all teams facing visa challenges that positive updates will be forthcoming, ensuring no team will be prevented from attending the tournament.

Symbols of the FIFA World Cup are seen in a street in Tehran, Iran, November 20, 2022. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)