Iran forward Mehdi Torabi will travel for the rest of the World Cup after U.S. officials issued him a new visa on Tuesday. The 31‑year‑old had sat on the bench during the 2‑2 draw with New Zealand because his original single‑entry visa expired after the match. With the paperwork sorted, he can join the squad for the upcoming group games.

The Iran Football Federation confirmed the switch to a multiple-entry visa, noting coordination with FIFA to avoid further disruptions. Visa complications have plagued the Iranian delegation, with 13 officials—including federation president Mehdi Taj—denied entry and the team forced to relocate its training base from Tucson to Tijuana. The U.S. State Department has repeatedly stressed that visa type determines re‑entry rights.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously warned that individuals with IRGC ties would not be permitted, a policy echoed by White House task force head Andrew Giuliani, who said all 31 players and coaches eventually received visas. With Torabi cleared, Iran retains a crucial full attacking option as it seeks points in Los Angeles and Seattle, keeping its qualification hopes alive today.