Iran Issues 10-Point Ultimatum — Confirms 'Definitely' Playing if USA/Canada/Mexico Meet All Conditions

Iran's Football Federation president Mehdi Taj confirmed on May 9 that Team Melli will 'definitely' participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup — but only if hosts USA, Mexico, and Canada satisfy a 10-point ultimatum. The conditions include: visas for all players and support staff, including those with prior IRGC service; formal respect for Iran's flag and national anthem at match venues; high security guarantees at airports, hotels, stadiums, and transit routes; and written assurances that Iranian personnel will not be subjected to 'politically motivated' questioning. Taj confirmed to NBC News that as of May 9, the US has not processed a single visa for any Iranian player or coaching staff member, despite the June 11 tournament opener being 33 days away. FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström has invited Iranian federation officials to FIFA headquarters in Zurich by May 20 for formal talks — the last significant diplomatic channel before the June 1 final squad submission deadline. Iran is drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, with matches at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (June 15 vs New Zealand; June 21 vs Belgium) and Lumen Field in Seattle (June 26 vs Egypt). The squad is scheduled to depart for a 15-day training camp in Turkey on May 15, though that now remains contingent on visa issuance. Iran's government — represented by Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali — has stated 'under no circumstances' can Iran participate, while FIFA has confirmed participation under its governance framework that recognizes football federations, not government ministries. The 10-point ultimatum on May 9 represents a shift in tone from the federation: where the Sports Minister insists on non-participation, the federation is now framing conditions for it.