Iranian officials to miss FIFA Congress over alleged mistreatment in Canada | World Cup 2026 News
Iranian Football Delegation Denied Entry to Canada, Missing FIFA Congress
An Iranian football federation delegation turned back from Toronto Pearson International Airport this week, citing poor treatment by Canadian immigration officials. The delegation, which included federation President Mehdi Taj, Secretary-General Hedayat Mombeni, and Deputy Secretary General Hamed Momeni, will miss a pre-World Cup FIFA Congress in Vancouver.
According to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, the delegation arrived with valid visas but decided to return to Turkey on the first available flight due to what they described as “unacceptable behavior” from immigration personnel. The group was traveling to Vancouver for Thursday’s FIFA Congress, which brings together representatives from all 211 FIFA member associations ahead of the World Cup, cohosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
In a statement, the Iranian football federation expressed its disappointment, saying, “The insult to one of the most honorable organs of the Iranian nation’s armed forces is unacceptable.”
In 2024, Canada designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, and Canadian government officials reported that Taj was denied entry due to alleged ties with the IRGC. A government spokesperson stated, “While we cannot comment on individual cases due to privacy laws, the government has been clear and consistent: IRGC officials are inadmissible to Canada.”
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand acknowledged that Iranian football officials were denied entry but described the situation as “unintentional.” “It’s not my personal lead, but my understanding is that there is a revocation of the permission,” she said, referring to Immigration Minister Lena Diab.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree also emphasized that while he could not discuss specific cases, IRGC members were not welcome in Canada.
The incident highlights the ongoing political and practical challenges surrounding Iran’s participation in the World Cup. Despite qualifying for the tournament, issues related to travel, visas, and security remain significant obstacles.
While FIFA has assured that the tournament will proceed as planned, doubts linger regarding the ability of Iranian players, officials, and supporters to move freely across borders during the event. Following the incident, FIFA expressed regret and indicated that President Gianni Infantino would seek to meet the Iranian delegation at the organization’s headquarters.
The FIFA Congress is typically a routine gathering, but this year’s meeting carries additional weight, with the first 48-team World Cup less than two months away and unresolved issues including costs and Iran’s participation. The Iranian officials also missed attending the Asian Football Confederation congress held in Vancouver on Tuesday.
