Mexico has granted visas to some Iraqi soccer players, allowing them to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Monterrey.
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Published March 11, 2026
Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has begun issuing visas to players of the Iraqi national team ahead of the World Cup intercontinental qualifiers scheduled for March 31 in Monterrey.
The Iraqi team faces logistical problems due to the disruption caused by Israel and the US’ war against Iran.
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“On March 8, some players were processed at the Mexican embassy in Saudi Arabia, and tomorrow others will be processed at the embassy in Qatar,” the ministry said in a statement late Monday.
The government has not released the names or the number of athletes who have been issued visas.
Iraq will play the winner of Suriname vs. Bolivia for a spot in the World Cup and a place in a group with France, Norway and Senegal.
Mexico, the United States and Canada will co-host the World Cup, which begins on June 11.
Iraq coach Graham Arnold has asked FIFA to postpone the intercontinental qualifiers. He said Arnold’s team, which mainly includes players from the domestic league, will not be able to assemble in full because Iraqi airspace is closed.
Mexico does not have an embassy in Iraq.
Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that it is in contact with the Iraqi embassy in Mexico and is ready to “provide all necessary assistance to the records of the members of the Iraqi national team.”
