The Iranian Football Federation has formally protested to FIFA regarding visa restrictions imposed on its team for the 2026 World Cup, hosted jointly by the US, Canada, and Mexico. A dozen members of the Iranian team’s support staff have been denied US visas, forcing the team to base itself in Tijuana, Mexico. Iran is permitted to enter the US only the day before each of its group stage matches, rather than the standard two days prior, hindering preparation. Federation officials have condemned the situation as unfair and a violation of FIFA standards, calling it a “dark episode” in World Cup history. US officials maintain the arrangement was agreed upon with Iran and FIFA months ago. This tournament marks the first time a host nation is in a state of conflict with a participating nation, adding a complex political dimension to the competition.