Overview

• President Donald Trump’s order barring entry to citizens of 12 countries, including Iran, casts doubt on the attendance of Iran’s qualified team, federation staff and fans.
• A narrow waiver for international athletes leaves uncertainty over visas for Iranian federation officials, accredited journalists and ordinary supporters.
• Iran’s Football Federation has refrained from commenting before the official draw while exploring staging its matches in Canada or Mexico if U.S. visas remain blocked.
• FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces criticism for not pressing the U.S. administration to ensure all Iranian delegates can enter host venues.
• Organizers project the 2026 World Cup will generate about $40 billion in economic activity and create 200,000 jobs, raising stakes for fully inclusive attendance.