US authorities have relaxed key travel restrictions for Iran’s national football team ahead of a decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G encounter against Egypt, boosting the team’s preparation time as it chases a historic knockout-stage qualification.
The road to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage may have become slightly smoother for Iran after US authorities eased travel restrictions that had complicated the team’s tournament preparations.
The United States Department of Homeland Security announced Tuesday that Iran’s national football team, known as Team Melli, will now be allowed to arrive at match venues up to two days before kickoff. The change comes ahead of Iran’s crucial Group G clash against Egypt in Seattle on Friday.
Under the previous policy, Iranian players and staff were required to travel to venues within 24 hours of matches. The restriction created logistical challenges during Iran’s opening two Group G fixtures in Inglewood, California, forcing the squad to operate under a compressed schedule.
The revised directive will allow Iran to travel to Seattle on Wednesday, providing valuable preparation time before one of the most important matches in the country’s football history. However, strict measures remain in place, including a requirement that the team return immediately to its base camp in Tijuana, Mexico, after every match.
The Iranian Football Federation has expressed frustration over the arrangements and plans to submit a formal complaint to FIFA. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei described Iran as “the most affected team in the World Cup” because of the travel burden.
Despite the challenges, Iran remain unbeaten with two draws from two matches. A victory against Egypt would secure the nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage appearance. A draw could also prove enough, depending on results elsewhere in Group G.
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