Concerns have emerged over the treatment of Iran’s national team at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with travel restrictions and visa issues disrupting the team’s preparations.
United States | Sayer Zaland
Iran’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have been significantly affected by travel restrictions and logistical challenges, prompting criticism from within football circles.
According to reports, Iranian players have been required to base themselves in Mexico and leave the United States shortly after each match. Several members of the team’s support staff were also reportedly denied visas, limiting the delegation’s ability to operate normally during the tournament.
An anonymous member of the FIFA Council described the situation as unfair, arguing that all teams should compete under equal conditions and have access to the same preparation opportunities.
Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration over the restrictions, saying the team was instructed to leave immediately after its opening match against New Zealand, limiting recovery and preparation time.
Team captain Mehdi Taremi also voiced concern, stating that the absence of key federation officials, media representatives and support staff had created additional challenges for the squad.
Despite the difficulties, Iran opened its World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand and remains focused on its remaining group-stage matches.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Several participating nations have reportedly encountered travel and visa-related challenges during the tournament, raising concerns about equal access and tournament logistics.