Members of Iran's national soccer team attend a farewell ceremony ahead of their departure to the 2026 World Cup in Tehran, Iran, May 13, 2026.

(photo credit: MAJID ASGARIPOUR/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY) VIA REUTERS)

By REUTERS

MAY 14, 2026 08:36

Thousands of enthusiastic fans packed Tehran's Enqelab Square on Wednesday night for a spirited World Cup departure rally honoring Iran's national soccer team, even as doubts persist about gaining entry to the United States for the tournament.

The athletes, who head to a training camp in Turkey next week to sharpen their skills, drew roaring cheers from the crowd while delivering patriotic addresses from the main stage. There, officials unveiled the team's kit for the upcoming June 11-July 19 competition.

"This is the best send-off in the last four World Cup campaigns," Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) President Mehdi Taj declared to state television.

"The players are with the people, and the crowd stands with the country's dignity, honor, and strength. Whatever the result, may Iran's flag be raised there and defended."

Iran's participation in the World Cup has faced serious scrutiny since the US and Israel carried out airstrikes against the Islamic Republic in late February.

Taj himself was barred from entering co-host nation Canada two weeks ago for the FIFA Congress over his ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sparking fears that similar issues could block other Iranian personnel from the US.

The IRGC holds terrorist organization status in the US, just as in Canada, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio has vowed that no one linked to the group will be allowed in.

Iran: FIFA must take action

Iran has squarely placed the onus on FIFA, the tournament organizers, to secure US entry for its players and staff - especially since Team Melli must play all three group stage games there.

"Nothing has arrived yet regarding the visas. We hope it will definitely be handled within this timeframe," FFIRI secretary-general Hedayat Mombeini told state TV during the rally.

"FIFA has made promises, and hopefully those promises will lead to results, and the players will receive their visas on time."

Unconfirmed reports surfaced Wednesday that certain Iraqi players had been denied US visas, though the White House and Iraqi Football Association promptly debunked them - a development that only amplified Iranian worries.

"I just heard that news as well," Mombeini remarked.

"I hope FIFA steps in... we have always believed sport should be separate from politics. So in my view, FIFA has a duty to step in and make sure entry for all members of all World Cup teams is facilitated."

Iran faces Gambia in a World Cup warmup clash in Antalya on May 29, with Mombeini confirming plans for another friendly match during the Turkey training stint.