The latest clash between political rivals, the United States of America and Iran, is entirely on as the football world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw.
The draw for next year’s World Cup takes place on Friday, December 5 at 17:00 GMT in Washington, D.C., United States of America.
However, Iran’s contingent is likely to be absent from the program in the wake of reports that visas were denied to members of the Asian country, according to IRNA News Agency.
IRNA Agency cited Iranian Football Federation spokesperson Amir-Mahdi Alavi’s statement that indicated that Iranian officials are facing “obstacles” in acquiring their visas, with such obstacles going beyond sports-related reasons.
Per the agency, the Iranian Football Federation spokesperson added that Iran has contacted FIFA, the world governing body, over the issue.
Next month’s event will draw 48 nations set to compete in the World Cup into 12 groups, with Iran in Pot 2, raising the possibility of being drawn against the United States of America in the same group.
