Iran qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026 despite political challenges

TEHRAN: Iran secured their place in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Tuesday. It was Iran’s fourth consecutive World Cup qualification and seventh overall.

Joining co-hosts the United States, Mexico, and Canada, as well as Japan and New Zealand, Iran became the sixth team to book their place in the expanded 48-team tournament. Mehdi Tarini, the Inter Milan striker, was the hero of the night, scoring both goals for the team.

Despite Iran’s defensive lapses, which allowed Uzbekistan to score twice, the draw was enough to secure Iran a top-two finish in Group A of the AFC’s third qualifying round. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, is on the verge of qualifying for its first World Cup, needing just one win from its remaining two matches.

While Iran’s qualification is a significant achievement, it comes with potential complications. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted primarily by the United States, which has strained relations with Iran. Travel restrictions imposed by the US government could make it difficult for Iranian fans, players and staff to enter the country.

A recent memo reported by Reuters lists Iran among 10 countries, including Afghanistan, Syria and North Korea, that could face complete visa suspensions under US policies. This echoes the 2017 travel ban on most Muslim countries during Trump’s last presidency.

Iran’s only chance of avoiding playing in the US would be to win Group A, which would allow them to play their group matches in Mexico. However, advancing beyond the group stage — a feat Iran has never achieved — would likely land them back on American soil.