Iran’s participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup could depend on diplomatic assurances, with the country’s football leadership insisting that its military institutions must be respected by cohost the United States.

Football federation demands guarantees
Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj said the team’s preparations for the tournament are continuing, but attendance will hinge on guarantees that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and other national institutions are not insulted. He stated that Iran would take part if such assurances are clearly provided.

Taj emphasised that organisers must ensure no repeat of recent incidents involving Iranian officials abroad, adding that respect for national symbols is a key condition for participation.

Canada incident raises concerns
The remarks come after an Iranian delegation, including Taj, returned from Toronto despite holding valid visas. Officials cited unacceptable behaviour by immigration authorities and described the incident as disrespectful towards Iran’s armed forces. The delegation missed a pre-World Cup football meeting in Vancouver as a result.

Canadian authorities had earlier designated the IRGC as a terrorist organisation, and officials indicated that Taj was denied entry due to alleged links with the group.

Conflict adds to tensions
The situation unfolds amid ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. According to Iranian officials, thousands have been killed and tens of thousands injured. Iran has responded with strikes targeting locations hosting US forces as well as Israeli targets, further intensifying regional tensions.

Planned talks with FIFA
Taj is expected to meet FIFA president Gianni Infantino and secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom at the organisation’s headquarters in Zurich. During these discussions, he will seek firm guarantees that Iranian players and officials will not face entry restrictions or disrespect during the tournament.

He stressed that Iran qualified for the World Cup on merit and expects to be treated fairly, noting that FIFA is the official host of the tournament rather than any individual government.

Team preparations continue
Despite uncertainty, Iran’s national team is moving ahead with its preparations. Training camps are planned both domestically and in Turkiye before the squad travels to the United States for the competition.

Iran is scheduled to begin its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt.

Uncertain path to participation
While preparations remain on track, Iran’s final participation will depend on whether it receives the assurances it is seeking. The situation highlights how global political tensions are increasingly intersecting with international sporting events.