Iran winger Torabi's US visa expires after World Cup opener, IFF seeks renewal for Belgium clash

Iran winger Mehdi Torabi's single-entry US visa expired after Team Melli's 2-2 World Cup opener draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles on Monday, June 15, state media IRNA reported Tuesday. Unlike other Iranian national team players who received multiple-entry visas, Torabi was only cleared for one entry, leaving his availability for crucial Group G matches uncertain.

The Iranian Football Federation confirms it has taken steps to obtain a new visa for Torabi so he can rejoin the squad for upcoming fixtures. IRNA did not specify whether he successfully departed the US but noted all team members were aboard the aircraft leaving for Mexico after the NZ match. The visa issue highlights ongoing diplomatic friction between Washington and Tehran, which previously saw around 15 delegation members denied US entry.

With Iran set to face Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 22, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26, Torabi's participation hinges on securing renewed travel documents. The team relocated its base to Mexico over security concerns related to the Middle East conflict, requiring frequent US travel for group-stage games.

Will Iran's World Cup campaign suffer if Torabi cannot overcome this visa hurdle before their critical Belgium encounter, or will the squad adapt despite the diplomatic headwinds affecting their preparations?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/06/16/iran-teams-us-visa-expires-after-first-world-cup-game/