The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened Thursday with a glittering ceremony at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, followed by the hosts defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match.

A series of visa denials, delays, and invasive security checks targeting Asian and African teams, officials, and fans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup smacks of discriminatory treatment and raises questions about the US as host.

Iran’s Football Federation has formally requested FIFA permission for its national team players to wear black armbands during their upcoming World Cup group-stage match against Egypt.

An Iranian football coach and former international player has condemned the politicization of sport by the US government, citing visa obstacles and logistical problems faced by members of Team Melli.

Iran’s Football Federation has condemned the United States for denying visas to members of the Iranian national team’s support staff ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The United States has denied visas to several Iranian national football team officials and staff ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite its duties as one of the hosts of the global event.

Iran’s national football team has reportedly been granted visas to enter the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid uncertainties over the team’s participation in the last weeks.