Iran files FIFA complaint over US travel restrictions

The Iranian Football Federation announced on Friday that it will file a formal complaint with FIFA over travel restrictions imposed on its national team by U.S. authorities during the 2026 World Cup. The team, which is based in Tijuana, Mexico, is only permitted to enter the United States the day before a match and must depart the country on the evening the game concludes. Iranian officials argue these conditions disrupt preparation and violate the principle of equal treatment for all tournament participants.

The complaint follows Iran's opening match, a 2-2 draw against New Zealand played on Monday, June 15, at Los Angeles Stadium. After that game, head coach Amir Ghalenoei and players sharply criticized what they described as a rushed and chaotic departure, stating they were forced to return to Mexico within hours instead of having a proper recovery period. Ghalenoei labeled his squad "the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup," citing these logistics as well as visa denials for several team officials and support staff.

The travel protocol is a result of heightened security measures linked to the recent conflict between the U.S. and Iran. A peace deal to end the fighting...