Top officials of Iran’s football federation have withdrawn from the upcoming FIFA Congress in Canada, citing alleged mistreatment by immigration authorities at Toronto’s international airport.
According to Iranian media reports, the federation’s president and deputy secretary general departed Canada shortly after arrival, returning to Turkey in protest over what was described as “inappropriate behaviour” and an “insult” directed at an arm of Iran’s military.
The incident comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions, following Canada’s 2024 designation of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist group, a move that restricts entry for its members.
Despite travelling with official visas, the Iranian officials reportedly chose to leave before the congress, which is scheduled to take place in Vancouver.
The development adds to growing concerns around Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the Canada, United States, and Mexico.
Tensions have been further heightened by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which began on February 28 following large-scale strikes involving the US and Israel.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently stated that Iranian players would be allowed to participate in the tournament, but warned that individuals with alleged links to the Revolutionary Guard could still face entry restrictions.
Meanwhile, Iran’s football federation had earlier explored the possibility of relocating its World Cup matches away from the United States. However, Gianni Infantino has maintained that Iran will compete as scheduled, in line with the official tournament draw.
