US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States has not barred the Iranian national football team from participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, individuals with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will be denied entry.
"We have not told Iran they cannot play," Rubio stated during a press briefing. "But anyone affiliated with the IRGC will not be allowed into the country."
The clarification comes amid concerns that Iranian players or officials could face travel restrictions due to US sanctions targeting the IRGC, which the US designates as a foreign terrorist organization. The State Department emphasized that standard visa regulations apply, meaning no blanket ban on the team itself.
Iran qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. The decision ensures the team can compete, but Iranian officials and support staff with IRGC connections might be excluded. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on players forced to choose between their careers and security affiliations.