‘Incompetent host’ — Iran tackles US over ‘visa denial’ for World Cup

Iran has tackled the United States, one of the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosts, for allegedly denying the country’s officials visa for the tournament.

Iran is set to participate in their seventh World Cup, but an ongoing conflict with the US has seen their impending participation take twists and turns.

The Persians previously threatened to boycott the mundial and requested its matches moved to Mexico, while FIFA moved to assure their participation.

However, the strained relations took another turn, with report that some officials of the team were denied entry documents.

This has evoked a strong response from the Iranian embassy in South Africa, as the consulate took to its X page to call out the US government. It argued that Iran is a guest of FIFA while labelling the US an “incompetent host”.

“The incompetent @FIFAWorldCup host, USA, is failing to fulfill its responsibilities properly,” the post reads.

“We are guests of @FIFAcom, and it is FIFA’s responsibility to ensure that visas for all members are issued.”

The incompetent @FIFAWorldCup host, USA, is failing to fulfill its responsibilities properly.

We are guests of @FIFAcom, and it is FIFA’s responsibility to ensure that visas for all members are issued.

US Denies Visas to Iran National Football Team Officials Ahead of World…

— Iran Embassy SA (@IraninSA) June 6, 2026

According to Reuters, the full contingent will continue to Mexico from where outstanding visa issues are expected to be resolved before entering the US.

Iran, in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, will play their group matches in the US.

Their final group match against Egypt is set for Washington. (TheCable)