Iran's football federation is lodging a formal complaint with FIFA over unfair travel restrictions imposed on its squad during the 2026 World Cup in North America. The complaint follows the denial of a request for the team to fly to the United States two days before their next match.
The federation expressed its dissatisfaction after being informed that the team will only be permitted to arrive in Los Angeles 24 hours before their crucial game against Belgium. These logistical issues began after Iran's Group G opener with New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium, when the squad was told they had to fly to their team base in Tijuana, Mexico immediately, rather than returning the following day after a recovery session.
The team's leadership has been vocal about the situation. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei argued that Iran is the most oppressed team at the tournament, while captain Mehdi Taremi described the recent weeks as a disaster.
These travel restrictions remain in place despite a framework deal signed two days prior between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending their war.