Iran has confirmed it will play in the World Cup but insists on a set of conditions before it can travel. The Iran Football Federation said the team would enter the tournament “without retreating from our beliefs, culture and convictions,” and called on organisers to heed its concerns. The demands arrived after the federation president was denied entry to Canada.

Among the 10 conditions listed, Iran seeks guarantees that all players, coaches and officials will obtain visas, including those with ties to the IRGC. It also demands respect for the national flag and anthem, and enhanced security at airports, hotels and stadiums. Some requests, such as media restrictions, may prove harder for FIFA to enforce.

The backdrop is tense. Mehdi Taj was barred from Canada before last month’s FIFA Congress, a move linked to his IRGC connections. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Iranian players would be welcomed, but warned that those with IRGC links could face entry restrictions. The clash of sport and politics makes the negotiation fraught.

With the World Cup slated to begin on 11 June across the United States, Mexico and Canada, Iran’s participation hinges on resolving these diplomatic hurdles. FIFA can shape tournament logistics, but visas and border controls lie under US jurisdiction. Until a deal is struck, the team’s presence remains conditional, though no withdrawal has been announced.