Iran striker Taremi says US visa denials create World Cup tension

Iran forward Mehdi Taremi says United States visa denials for 14 national team staff members have created “tension” ahead of the World Cup.

The team’s preparations for the tournament, co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada, have been heavily disrupted by ongoing geopolitical conflict.

Team Melli were forced to relocate their training base from Arizona to the Mexican border city of Tijuana on the advice of world governing body Fifa.

While the playing squad successfully travelled to Mexico, more than a dozen backroom staff have been refused entry into the United States.

Visa issues overshadow tournament build-up

All three of the nation’s group stage fixtures are scheduled to be played on American soil.

The Asian side begin their campaign against New Zealand in Inglewood, California on Monday, before facing Belgium and Egypt.

Taremi, who featured in last season’s Champions League final for Inter Milan, expressed his disappointment at the politically charged atmosphere.

“There’s a lot of tension right now in this World Cup,” said the striker.

“You feel it in the atmosphere and unfortunately, it’s because of actions like visa denials.”

Fifa intervention sought

Iran Football Federation vice-president Mehdi Mohammed Nabi is among the officials currently blocked from entering the host nation.

He confirmed the federation is actively working with Fifa to resolve the diplomatic impasse before their opening match.

“There should be no discrimination in a sport,” Nabi stated.

“Everyone should be treated equally and hopefully this is resolved soon.”

The squad’s build-up has already been severely hampered by a regional war that began in late February.

With the domestic league suspended due to the outbreak of conflict, the national team has faced unprecedented logistical challenges heading into the global showcase.