The Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has issued a strict 10-point ultimatum to 2026 World Cup hosts, placing their participation in jeopardy.
Tehran insists that the United States, Mexico, and Canada must provide ironclad security and visa guarantees for the squad to compete this summer.
FFIRI President Mehdi Taj specifically demanded that stars like Mehdi Taremi and Ehsan Hajsafi be granted entry regardless of their prior military service.
The federation emphasized that it will not retreat from its “beliefs, culture, and convictions” while competing on North American soil.
These demands follow a period of intense geopolitical friction, including Canada’s recent refusal to admit a high-ranking Iranian football executive.
Despite the ultimatum, FIFA President Gianni Infantino maintains that all fixtures will proceed as scheduled, rejecting calls to replace Iran with another nation.
The Iranian delegation is currently slated to be based in Tucson, Arizona, though officials have expressed concerns regarding their safety in the U.S.
The “Team Melli” is drawn into Group G, where they are scheduled to open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 16.
Failure to meet these conditions could lead to a historic withdrawal, potentially forcing FIFA to consider a last-minute replacement for the 48-team tournament.
