The Iranian Football Federation announced plans to file an official complaint with FIFA regarding tournament travel restrictions. This decision followed a second consecutive refusal by organizers to accommodate the training schedule of the national team. Consequently, Iranian officials blamed United States restrictions for disrupting their pre-approved travel plans between host cities. The 2026 FIFA World Cup features matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
Iran submitted its full preparation schedule to FIFA before the start of the tournament. The coaching staff requested arrival in host cities two days before matches for optimal physical recovery. Furthermore, they planned to return to their primary base camp the day after each game. However, tournament organizers failed to honor this arrangement for Iran’s opening match against New Zealand.
Instead of the requested two-day window, organizers allowed Team Melli to travel only one day early. Officials also forced the players to return to their base camp immediately following the match. Now, authorities have imposed identical travel restrictions ahead of Iran’s second group match against Belgium. This upcoming soccer game will take place in Los Angeles at midday on Sunday afternoon.
Iranian officials requested early travel to California so players could adapt to the local conditions. They also wanted to conduct a final training session on the actual stadium pitch. Despite these technical athletic reasons, organizers rejected the request and forced a Saturday travel date. Therefore, the federation stated these restrictions create unequal playing conditions for the participating tournament teams.
This logistical dispute follows harsh public criticism from Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei earlier this week. Ghalenoei accused the United States of discrimination and creating unfair obstacles for his players. Originally, Iran planned its main training camp in Tucson, Arizona, to prepare for matches. Visa complications and logistical hurdles ultimately forced the team to relocate to Tijuana, Mexico, instead.
The under-prepared Iranian squad occupies a difficult position in Group G after recent results. The team settled for a 1-1 draw against New Zealand in their opening match. Meanwhile, the federation confirmed the players remain fully focused on their Sunday match against Belgium. Football officials will now pursue the formal dispute through official legal channels with FIFA.