Iran to lodge complaint with FIFA over World Cup 2026 travel restrictions
Tehran, June 19
The Football Federation of Iran has expressed disappointment over the travel restrictions imposed on the team by the co-hosts USA during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 and has decided to lodge an official complaint to the governing body, FIFA, on the following matter.
Iran players are only allowed to fly into the USA a day before they have a game and have to leave the country on the same day as a match under the conditions of their visas, which could be a big hurdle in their preparation for Sunday's clash against a tough side, Belgium.
In a statement released on Friday, the federation said: "The football federation of Iran believes that such restrictions are inconsistent with the principle of providing equal conditions for all participating teams and may negatively affect teams' preparation processes.
"Consequently, the federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with Fifa through the appropriate channels. Despite these limitations, Iran's national team will continue its preparation programme and remain fully focused on its upcoming match against Belgium," the statement added.
Earlier, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said that they are the 'most oppressed' team at the tournament following a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles in their opening game.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ghalenoei said his team had been suddenly informed that it had to return to Mexico immediately after the match in Los Angeles.
"After the game they said to us, 'You have to leave immediately. We've been asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana, and we are really troubled by that," Ghalenoei told reporters in the post-match press conference.
"They are forcing us to go back early. They are making the situation more and more difficult, more hurdles, but we're not going to let that stop us from doing our best," he added.
The coach also claimed Iran had faced several difficulties during their preparation for the tournament.
"We were supposed to arrive two nights before the game, but they didn't permit [it]. We were supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return at lunchtime. I think our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup. Our federation isn't here, our media isn't here, our management isn't here," he said.
Iran's involvement in the World Cup has been marred by uncertainty, linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East and related security concerns.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian, I feel for the Iranian team. We know how it feels when visa issues mess with your plans. But honestly, Iran should have anticipated this given the political tensions. Still, no team should be treated like this at a World Cup. 🙏
I'm an American and this is embarrassing. The World Cup is supposed to bring people together, not put up barriers. Our government's policies are hurting the sport and our reputation. The players just want to play football. 🤦♂️
The coach saying they're 'most oppressed' seems over the top. Many teams face logistical challenges. But I agree that one-day travel for a World Cup match is ridiculous—players need proper rest. FIFA must ensure equal treatment for all nations.
As a sports fan, this is heartbreaking. Politics should stay out of football. Iran's players have worked hard to qualify, and now they're being penalized for things beyond their control. Stand with Iran on this one. 🏆❤️
Typical American hypocrisy—they talk about human rights and fair play, but then treat a team like this. Iran should boycott the match if conditions don't improve. No amount of football glory is worth this humiliation. 😡
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