Despite the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Congress saw no formal discussion regarding Iran’s participation in the upcoming tournament.
Furthermore, there was no deliberation on whether the team’s matches should be relocated from the United States following the recent conflict between the two nations.
Concerns have surfaced regarding potential visa complications that may have hindered the Iranian delegation’s travel to the confederation meeting in Vancouver.
These issues could also impact their attendance at the overall FIFA Congress scheduled for Thursday, as well as the World Cup itself.
The 48-team tournament, set to begin on June 11, will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
While it remained unconfirmed if visa restrictions were the specific cause for the absence, the situation became apparent during a presentation for the nine AFC teams that qualified for the World Cup.
As commemorative gifts were distributed, officials announced that Iran would receive their token once they arrive.
FIFA maintains tournament schedule
Last week, an Iranian government spokesperson stated that the national team was actively preparing for a successful appearance in its World Cup fixtures held in the United States.
FIFA has consistently maintained that Iran will adhere to the match schedule finalized last December.
The governing body has resisted suggestions to move the team’s matches to Mexico following the military attacks launched by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28.
Addressing the AFC leaders, Infantino highlighted the delicate global climate, noting that many regions are currently affected by dangerous conflicts.
Infantino emphasized the need to build bridges through football and create competitions where people can unite despite international tensions.
He urged the sporting community to focus on building football fields rather than deepening divisions during difficult times.
Preparation for Group G
Iran is currently placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt.
The team’s planned training camp is situated in Tucson, Arizona, with their opening match against New Zealand scheduled for June 15 in Inglewood, California.
Final group stage fixtures
Following their opener near Los Angeles, the Iranian squad is set to face Belgium in Inglewood on June 21. Their final group stage encounter against Egypt is scheduled to take place in Seattle on June 26.
As the tournament approaches, the focus remains on whether the full delegation will be able to secure the necessary travel documents to compete on North American soil.
