Iran's national soccer team will be allowed to enter the United States one day before each of their three scheduled World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on June 9, 2026 [1, 2]. This directly contradicts earlier media reports quoting Iranian ambassador to Mexico Abolfazl Pasandideh that the team would have to arrive and leave on the same day as their matches [1, 2]. A DHS spokesperson called those reports untrue and thanked former President Donald Trump for permitting the team early arrivals. "These statements are untrue. Thanks to the generosity of President (Donald) Trump the Iranian team will be able to arrive the day before their matches," the spokesperson said [1].

The Iranian team had faced visa uncertainties following denials for several football federation staff members, including the team manager, two analysts, media director and a Foreign Ministry representative, all of whom were refused US visas before the tournament [1, 2]. Iranian ambassador Pasandideh criticized US officials for these denials but noted, "Their visas don't specify anything about them having to leave at a certain time." [1]

After weeks of uncertain negotiations, all Iranian players were granted visas on June 5, about 10 days before their first match scheduled for June 15 [1, 2]. This allowed the team to finalize preparations and enter the country without the need for same-day travel.

Iran will face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, then Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 [1, 2]. Initially, Iran planned to train in Arizona, but those plans were changed following the outbreak of hostilities between the US, Israel, and Iran earlier in February 2026 [1, 2].

In March, President Trump welcomed Iran's participation in the World Cup but said the team staying in the US was unsafe "for their own life and safety," signaling early concerns about their presence [1]. The visa approvals and DHS clarification have helped alleviate those concerns.

Iran is scheduled to play their final group match against Egypt in Seattle this coming Friday, June 26 [1, 2].