Iran winger Mehdi Torabi’s initially issued single-entry US visa expired after Iran’s opening 2-2 draw against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles, where Torabi was an unused substitute. [1, 2, 3] The Iran national team is based in Tijuana, Mexico, requiring them to enter the US for matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. [2, 4, 5]
Torabi’s single-entry visa allowed him to enter the US for the Los Angeles match but expired once the team left, threatening his ability to return for remaining games. [2] An Iran Football Federation spokesman explained: "While multiple-entry visas were issued for the team's players to travel to the United States, Torabi's visa was valid for only one entry. Following the team's trip to Los Angeles for the match against New Zealand... his visa has now expired." [2]
Iran Football Federation worked quickly over June 16 and 17 to secure a new multiple-entry US visa for Torabi. [6, 7, 8] The US Department of State confirmed the issue was resolved, stating, "As soon as we became aware of the issue, we worked to ensure that the player can participate in every game." [5, 6]
US authorities require the Iranian team to exit the US within hours after each group stage match, returning to Mexico before re-entering for subsequent games. [5] Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House FIFA Task Force, said, "The team will be allowed to come in, match day minus one... They’ll be asked to leave the day that the match wraps up... They’ll be able to do that again in Los Angeles. They’ll be able to do it again in Seattle." [5]
Around 15 Iranian delegation members, including officials alleged to have ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, were denied US visas. [1, 2, 3] Mehdi Torabi is also noted for his support of the Iranian government and alleged IRGC links. [2, 3]
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei criticized the travel restrictions, saying, "They delayed our arrivals, (now) they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery. They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles, but we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best." [7]
Iran and the US recently reached a framework agreement aimed at ending hostilities, but visa complications and security concerns remain obstacles. [1, 9, 10]
Iran will face Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 in its remaining Group G matches. [1, 5, 8]
With the visa issue resolved, Torabi is cleared to participate in both upcoming games as Iran continues its World Cup campaign. [6, 7]
