US Denies Visas to Iranian Officials Ahead of World Cup

The United States has blocked visa applications for multiple officials of Iran's national football team in advance of the World Cup, according to statements from American officials.

The visa denials targeting Mehdi Taj, the federation's president, were justified on grounds that he formerly held a senior role within the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, which the United States designates as a terrorist organization.

The American decision extended beyond Taj to encompass other senior figures within Iran's football administration. Among those denied entry were Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, the team director; Hedayat Membini, the federation's secretary-general; as well as the national team's executive director, media director, and performance analysts.

The US administration has made clear its position on the matter, emphasizing that while Iranian athletes themselves would be permitted to enter the country, no entry visas would be granted to officials or accompanying personnel believed to have connections to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, regardless of whether their stated purpose was sports-related or media-focused.