Iran has issued a 10-point ultimatum to FIFA, indicating a potential withdrawal from the upcoming World Cup. This development comes amidst ongoing tensions with the USA, and speculation about Iran's participation has been prevalent for several months. Reports suggest that the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) is seeking to assert control over the narrative surrounding their involvement in the tournament.

Key Demands from Iran

The FFIRI has made it clear that players and staff should not have to compromise their "beliefs, culture and convictions" during the World Cup, particularly as all their group stage matches are set to take place on US soil. While the complete list of demands has not been publicly confirmed, Iranian journalist Alireza Akbari has reported several key points. These include:

• Issuance of visas without complications for all players and staff, including those who have served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
• Protection from questioning by US immigration authorities once visas are granted.
• Advance resolution of visas for Iranian journalists and fans attending the matches.
• Implementation of high security protocols by US authorities at airports, hotels, transit routes, and stadiums.
• Restriction on fans to only bring official team flags to stadiums, prohibiting other flags.
• Assurance that Iran’s national anthem will be played during all matches without disruption.
• Limiting press conference questions to match-related topics only.

Challenges Ahead

The demand for visa waivers poses significant challenges, particularly given the travel ban currently affecting Iranian citizens under the Trump administration. Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasized the need for all players and technical staff, especially those with military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, to receive visas without issues.

As the situation develops, Iran's stance will be closely monitored as they prepare for the World Cup, which is set to take place in 2026.