The United States government has denied entry visas to key officials of Iran’s Football Federation, including its president, Mehdi Taj, and head coach, Amir Ghalenoei, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw.

According to the Tehran Times, nine Iranian officials were affected by the decision, which has raised diplomatic tension between both countries. Iran, which has already qualified for next year’s World Cup, was expected to have senior representatives at the draw ceremony.

Taj, who also serves as Vice President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), has reportedly lodged a formal complaint with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, requesting intervention.

Infantino, said to maintain a cordial relationship with Taj, has reportedly reached out to U.S. authorities in an effort to resolve the matter. Sources indicate that some of the officials might still obtain visas before the event following FIFA’s involvement.

In September, Infantino assured members of the Iranian national team that FIFA would assist in addressing any travel-related difficulties ahead of the 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.