Canadian authorities have denied entry to senior Iranian football officials ahead of the upcoming FIFA Congress in Vancouver, citing security concerns.
Among those turned away was Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian football federation, who was reportedly stopped at Toronto Pearson Airport and returned abroad despite initially receiving a visa. Officials said the decision was linked to alleged ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which Canada classifies as a terrorist group.
The move has triggered diplomatic tensions, with Iranian authorities condemning the decision as unacceptable and disrespectful. Canadian officials, however, reiterated that individuals associated with the IRGC are not permitted entry under national security rules.
The incident comes just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico. Iran is scheduled to compete in the tournament, though the situation raises fresh questions about access and logistics for officials linked to the delegation.
While participation of players is not currently affected, the episode highlights how political tensions and security policies are increasingly intersecting with global sporting events.
