Iranian forward Mehdi Taremi may face exclusion from the 2026 World Cup due to his obligatory military service. Taremi, aged 33, showcased exceptional performance in the qualifiers, netting 10 goals in 15 matches as Iran claimed the top spot in both of their groups.
The team led by Amir Ghalenoei has been assigned to Group G, competing against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Their matches are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.
However, Taremi’s participation is uncertain. The president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, Mehdi Taj, cautioned that certain players might encounter visa issues, potentially affecting their World Cup eligibility.
Reports from various Iranian media sources suggest that Taremi is among the players in question. It is mandatory for Iranian men to serve in the military upon reaching 19 years of age.
Taremi’s circumstance differs from most of his teammates as he previously served in the Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Bushehr from 2010 to 2012.
The US State Department has strict regulations concerning individuals affiliated with organizations classified as foreign terrorist entities, including the IRGC. There is a possibility that visa applications for Iranian players could be declined.
A spokesperson from the US State Department emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting a successful World Cup while upholding national security standards during the visa review process.
As a result, the former Inter Milan and Porto player might miss the opportunity to participate in consecutive World Cup tournaments. In 2022, Iran finished third in their group, which included England, Wales, and the United States.
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