Iran was the only nation missing from FIFA's annual congress held in Canada, despite all 211 member associations being expected to attend. Representatives from the Iranian football federation, including president Mehdi Taj, had planned to be present in Vancouver but ultimately did not take part.
Iran was the only nation missing from FIFA's annual congress held in Canada, despite all 211 member associations being expected to attend. Representatives from the Iranian football federation, including president Mehdi Taj, had planned to be present in Vancouver but ultimately did not take part.
Reports from Iranian outlet Tasnim indicated that the delegation was turned back at the border, citing issues with Canadian immigration authorities. Canada’s foreign affairs minister Anita Anand later confirmed her understanding that previously granted entry permission had been revoked.
The situation appears linked to broader diplomatic and security concerns, as Taj is reported to have connections with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which Canada classifies as a terrorist organization. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized that individuals associated with the IRGC are not allowed entry, noting that strict measures are in place and enforced.
Canadian officials declined to discuss specific cases due to privacy laws but reiterated that there have been no diplomatic relations between Canada and Iran for more than a decade. The Iranian football federation has not yet issued an official response regarding the absence.
Despite the off-field developments, FIFA president Gianni Infantino reaffirmed that Iran will participate in this summer’s World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His comments come amid uncertainty linked to geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel.
Infantino stressed that the tournament should serve as a unifying event, stating that Iran’s involvement aligns with the broader aim of bringing people together. He confirmed that the team is scheduled to play its matches in the United States as originally planned.
Iran is set to begin its campaign on 15 June in Los Angeles against New Zealand, followed by another fixture in the same city against Belgium on 21 June. Their final group-stage match is due to take place in Seattle against Egypt on 26 June.
Although there had been a proposal for Iran’s matches to be relocated to Mexico, FIFA has consistently maintained that no changes would be made to the schedule or venues.
US President Donald Trump previously indicated that Iran would be allowed to take part in the tournament while also suggesting participation should be considered carefully for safety reasons. When asked again after Infantino’s latest remarks, he expressed agreement with the Fifa president’s stance.
Alongside discussions about the World Cup, Infantino also addressed his own future during the congress. He confirmed his intention to run again for the presidency when his current term concludes next year.
He already has support from several continental confederations, including those representing South America, Asia, and Africa. Under existing rules, a Fifa president may serve up to three terms, though part of Infantino’s initial period in office does not count toward that limit.
Having taken over in 2016 following Sepp Blatter’s resignation, he remains eligible to continue in the role beyond 2027 if re-elected, potentially extending his leadership for an additional four years.
