Iranian officials to miss FIFA Congress over alleged mistreatment in Canada
Summary
An Iranian football federation delegation was stopped at Toronto’s airport and sent back to Turkey, missing a key FIFA meeting in Vancouver before the World Cup. Canadian officials said the delegation members were denied entry because of alleged ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Canada has labeled a terrorist group.Key Facts
- Iranian football officials, including federation President Mehdi Taj, were turned back at Toronto Pearson airport despite holding valid visas.
- The delegation was traveling to Vancouver for the FIFA Congress held before the World Cup hosted by Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
- Canada claims the officials were denied entry due to their alleged connection to the IRGC, which Canada designates as a terrorist organization.
- Iranian officials described the treatment by Canadian immigration as unacceptable and insulting.
- Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said the denial of entry was unintentional but did not provide further details.
- Canada’s Public Safety Minister confirmed that IRGC members are not welcome in Canada but could not comment on specific cases.
- The incident raises concerns about Iran’s ability to participate fully and move freely during the upcoming World Cup.
- FIFA expressed regret over the situation and plans to meet with the Iranian delegation at its headquarters.
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