Iran's preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, are facing significant challenges due to ongoing military conflict and visa uncertainties. Mehdi Taj, the president of Iran's Football Federation, has voiced concerns about the impact of these issues on the national team's participation. The team was recently forced to relocate its base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, to reduce its exposure to the USA amid ongoing tensions. Taj has criticized the USA for delays in visa approvals, which have left the team uncertain about its ability to compete. The World Cup is set to begin shortly, with Iran's first match against New Zealand scheduled just days after the tournament kicks off. The Revolutionary Guard's status as a terrorist organization complicates matters for players and officials, raising concerns about their ability to travel. Despite ongoing discussions with FIFA leadership, including President Gianni Infantino, uncertainty about the team's travel to the USA persists, highlighting the complex interplay of sports and politics in this unprecedented situation.