The football federation of Iran has escalated its ongoing dispute over visa delays for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by formally taking the matter to football’s world governing body, FIFA.

Iranian officials say they are seeking urgent intervention from FIFA over concerns that visa-related challenges could affect the team’s travel arrangements and participation logistics for matches scheduled in the United States.

The issue comes amid wider tensions surrounding entry procedures for the Iranian squad, which is set to play group-stage matches in cities across the U.S. as part of the jointly hosted tournament by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Reports indicate that Iran has already made adjustments to its preparations, including relocating its training base to Mexico after receiving FIFA approval, in a bid to ease travel and security concerns.

FIFA has not issued a detailed public response on the complaint, but previously confirmed that all participating teams remain committed to the tournament schedule and that logistical concerns are being handled through official channels.

Iranian officials argue that guarantees are needed to ensure players, staff, and delegation members can enter host countries smoothly without disruptions that could affect sporting fairness.

The development adds another layer of political tension to the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, where security, diplomacy, and logistics have already become key talking points ahead of the tournament.