On 2/6, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated there are no disagreements with the players or coaching staff of the Iranian national team, but the country's sports delegation will be closely monitored upon entry and during activities in the US.

"We do not have issues with the athletes, as stated, or with the coaching staff. But what we will not allow is the inclusion in the delegation of individuals not directly related to the team who have ties to the IRGC or similar organizations", Rubio said.

Rubio emphasized that the US will continue to monitor the situation closely, adding that this is not a common issue with other nations.

Iranian players pose for a photo before their match against North Korea in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers at Azadi Stadium, Tehran, Iran, on the evening of 10/6/2025. *Reuters*

The IRGC, or Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is an elite military unit under Iran's supreme leader. It is responsible for protecting the regime from domestic and foreign threats and is involved in suppressing protests. This organization has been listed as a terrorist organization by the European Union.

The IRGC is one of Tehran's most significant security forces and has long been a contentious issue in relations between Iran and the West.

According to the plan, Iran will train in Spain before moving to Mexico to prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Initially, the team was expected to be based in Tucson, Arizona, US, but relocated to Tijuana following a proposal from the Iran Football Federation due to security concerns, which necessitated additional visa applications.

Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj stated that the team expects to receive Mexico visas this week, with US visas to follow shortly. Iran is scheduled to play two group stage matches in Inglewood, California: against New Zealand on 15/6 and against Belgium six days later. The final group stage match against Egypt will take place on 26/6 in Seattle.

Members of the Iran national football team attend a send-off ceremony before departing for the 2026 World Cup in Tehran on 13/5. *Reuters*

Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup had been questioned after the country faced attacks from the US and Israel starting on 28/2, escalating regional tensions. Despite reports of some peace proposals, tensions have not subsided. FIFA has repeatedly affirmed that Iran's right to participate in the tournament will be guaranteed.

Visa issues continue to be a sensitive point for the Iranian national team. In 4/2026, President Mehdi Taj had his entry visa to Canada revoked due to his past association with the IRGC, a force listed as a terrorist organization by Canada and the US.

Furthermore, according to Iranian media, professional football activities within the country have been disrupted since the outbreak of the conflict, forcing the national team to train in Antalya, Turkey, recently.

By Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Globo)