Iran will play at the 2026 World Cup, but from Mexico - basing themselves in Tijuana and crossing the border only for matchdays after Washington made clear it did not want the squad on American soil.
There remains uncertainty over visa acceptance to the US for those involved in Iran’s squad, with members linked to the IRGC, such as the Iranian Football Federation President, previously barred from entering North America.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino's assurances that all members of the Iranian delegation will be granted visas may well be put to the test during the tournament.