The Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI) has announced that it will lodge an official complaint with FIFA over travel restrictions imposed on the national team by FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts the United States. The federation argues that the visa conditions create unequal circumstances for participating teams and could adversely affect Iran's preparations during the tournament.

Under the current travel arrangements, Iran's players are permitted to enter the United States only one day before a scheduled match and are required to leave on the same day after the fixture. The restrictions are expected to complicate the team's build-up to its crucial World Cup encounter against Belgium on Sunday, limiting recovery time and training opportunities.

In a statement released on Friday, the FFIRI said the measures were inconsistent with the principle of providing equal conditions for all participating teams. The federation confirmed it would formally express its dissatisfaction through the appropriate FIFA channels while assuring supporters that the national team would remain focused on its campaign despite the logistical challenges.

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Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei had earlier voiced similar concerns following his side's 2-2 draw against New Zealand in Los Angeles. He revealed that the squad was instructed to leave immediately after the match and return to its base in Tijuana, Mexico, instead of remaining overnight for recovery, describing the situation as an unnecessary obstacle during the tournament.

Ghalenoei also claimed that the team had faced multiple difficulties even before the competition began, including being denied permission to arrive two nights before its opening fixture. Calling Iran "the most oppressed team" at the World Cup, he pointed to the absence of federation officials, media representatives and senior management as additional challenges affecting the squad.

Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been overshadowed by uncertainty stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and related security concerns. Despite the travel restrictions and logistical issues, the team has reiterated its commitment to continuing its preparation programme and competing to the best of its ability as it pursues qualification to the knockout stage.

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