Iran says travel limitations imposed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup are disrupting its preparations, while U.S. officials insist the rules were communicated in advance.
The Iranian Football Federation has announced plans to file a complaint with FIFA, alleging that travel restrictions during the 2026 FIFA World Cup are negatively affecting the national team’s preparations.
According to a federation spokesperson, Iran had submitted its tournament logistics and preparation plans well ahead of time but has repeatedly faced restrictions that interfere with the coaching staff’s technical strategy. The latest dispute centers on Iran’s request to travel from its base camp in Tijuana, Mexico, to Los Angeles two days before its Group Stage match against Belgium.
Iran argued that arriving earlier would allow players sufficient time to adjust to local conditions, complete final training sessions, and finalize match preparations. However, tournament organizers reportedly rejected the request, permitting the team to enter the United States only one day before the fixture.
The federation also expressed frustration after being required to leave Los Angeles on the evening of its opening World Cup match, a 2-2 draw against New Zealand.
U.S. officials have defended the arrangements. Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, stated that Iran had been informed in advance of the travel procedures. Under the policy, the team can enter the United States one day before each match and must depart shortly after the game concludes.
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