The United States has refused entry visas to members of an Iranian delegation that had planned to attend the World Cup draw, according to Iranian Football Federation (FFI) spokesperson Amir-Mehdi Alawi.
Among those turned away were FFI president Mehdi Taj, national team coach Amir Ghalenoei, and seven other federation officials, Alawi told the daily Shargh.
The FFI is now seeking to persuade FIFA president Gianni Infantino to intervene and overturn the decision.
The spokesperson expressed hope that Infantino could help resolve the matter within the next two weeks.
The World Cup draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C.
Concerns had already been raised about the U.S. entry restrictions introduced under former President Donald Trump.
Some feared the policy might disrupt Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Experts believe the players and coaching staff may face fewer difficulties, but officials, journalists, and especially fans could encounter problems.
As a precaution, the FFI has voiced a preference for Iran’s matches to be staged in Canada or Mexico rather than in the United States.
Tehran and Washington have had no formal diplomatic ties for more than 45 years, with relations marked by ongoing hostility.
Still, nearly two million Iranians reside in the U.S., and despite strained politics and complicated visa rules, family visits had long been possible.
Now, even these personal reunions are being disrupted under the latest restrictions.