Mehdi Torabi

Mehdi Torabi is an Iran International midfielder who became the centre of an access dispute at the 2026 World Cup after his single-entry US Visa expired following Iran's 2-2 draw with New Zealand on 15 June. Unlike teammates issued multiple-entry documents, Torabi requires a re-issue from US immigration authorities before he can return to the country for Iran's Group c fixture against Belgium on 21 June, making him the first documented mid-tournament selection casualty from the Visa access chain that had previously affected only fans and federation staff.

Torabi has been a regular presence in the Iran national team squad over recent years, earning caps across qualifying campaigns and international competitions. He plays as a central or attacking midfielder and represents Persepolis FC in the Iranian Premier League, one of the country's most prominent clubs. His situation at this tournament highlights the structural vulnerability of nations on complex travel restrictions when matches span multiple cities and entry windows.

The incident sits within a broader pattern of access difficulties that Iran's delegation, supporters, and officials have faced at the North American-hosted tournament. FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the Iran dressing room after the New Zealand draw and indicated he would seek to help, but the Visa re-issue process remains under US government control. The case has drawn attention to the practical gaps between FIFA's host-nation obligations and the sovereign immigration regimes of tournament co-hosts.