Iran's Mehdi Torabi's US visa expires ahead of World Cup group games

Iran international Mehdi Torabi's United States visa has expired, Iranian state news agency IRNA reported, as US visa restrictions on Iranian citizens continue to affect the national football team. The agency said the visa was issued for a single entry and expired after Iran's 2-2 draw with New Zealand, while other squad members hold multiple-entry visas. The Iranian Football Federation has begun the procedures required for a new visa application to allow Torabi to join the team for Iran's remaining Group G matches against Belgium and Egypt. IRNA noted that other members of the Iranian delegation have previously faced difficulties entering the United States, but said no official statement had yet been issued by tournament organizers or FIFA. Iran faces New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G of the 2026 World Cup.