Iran Files Formal Complaint with FIFA Over World Cup Travel Restrictions

Iran plans to lodge a formal complaint with FIFA concerning the "restrictions imposed by the organisers" on their team during the World Cup. This decision follows the announcement that they can only arrive in Los Angeles 24 hours prior to their pivotal match against Belgium on Sunday. After their Group G opener against New Zealand, head coach Amir Ghalenoei characterized his team as the "most oppressed" at the tournament. Captain Mehdi Taremi echoed these sentiments, describing the logistical challenges as a "disaster". Key points include: Iran was instructed to fly to their base in Tijuana, Mexico immediately after their draw, rather than returning the following day for recovery. They feel compelled to complain because, similar to before their 2-2 draw with New Zealand, they will not be allowed to arrive in the U.S. two days before their match, which restricts their preparation time. The upcoming match is scheduled for a midday kick-off local time in Los Angeles, forcing the team to travel on Saturday. In an official statement, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) asserted: "Such restrictions are inconsistent with the principle of providing equal conditions for all participating teams and may negatively affect teams’ preparation processes." Despite these challenges, Iran’s national team remains committed to their preparation for the match against Belgium.

Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-06-19

• football
• fifa-world-cup