Italy’s repechage to World Cup, clear warning comes from ministry

The current geopolitical situation and the extremely high tension between Washington and Tehran casts shadows on Iran’s participation in the upcoming World Cup to be held between the United States, Mexico and Canada starting June 11. Above all, the issue regarding visas for Iranian soccer players who will be engaged in the tournament is holding the headlines.

During a press conference held with reporters, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei sent a clear warning to Donald Trump by stressing that the United States, being one of the countries that will host the competition, has an obligation to issue visas to the national soccer team in accordance with FIFA regulations. He also added that the governing body of international soccer is on Iran’s side.

Baqaei also referred to a recent meeting between Iranian Football Federation officials and senior FIFA officials in Turkey, during which Iran was assured that FIFA would do everything possible to ensure compliance with regulations by the host countries.

Iran has been placed in Group G along with Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt but it cannot be ruled out that it will be replaced with another team. According to Article 6.7 of FIFA regulations, if a participating football association withdraws and/or is excluded from the World Cup, FIFA will decide on the matter at its sole discretion and take whatever measures it deems necessary. FIFA may decide to replace the association in question with another federation.