US Defends Handling of Iran's Travel Issues During FIFA World Cup 2026

US Government's Response to Iran's Travel Challenges

Andrew Giuliani, a White House official, has come forward to support the United States' management of Iran's travel logistics during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following backlash regarding the restrictions placed on the Iranian team. Iran's journey in the tournament concluded with a 1-1 tie against Egypt, amid various logistical hurdles. The team relocated its training site from Tempe, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, and several delegation members reportedly faced visa complications that hindered their travel to the US.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin expressed his delight at Iran's exit from the tournament, stating he "danced a happy dance" upon their elimination. In a conversation with talkSPORT, Giuliani labeled Mullin's comments as "clumsy" while defending the US's stance on Iran's participation. He emphasized that many of the challenges faced by the Iranian team were due to decisions made by the Iranian Football Federation. "It was the Iranian's choice to set up in Tijuana," he noted. "They were initially based in Tucson, Arizona, and we clearly communicated that they could enter the country five days prior to their match."

Giuliani further explained that US officials had coordinated with immigration authorities to facilitate the team's travel from Mexico. "They opted to base themselves in Tijuana. In response, we arranged for the US Department of Homeland Security to meet them there to ensure that all individuals boarding the plane had valid visas," he stated. The Iranian team traveled from Tijuana to Los Angeles for their matches, returning to their base afterward. Giuliani mentioned that the team was allowed entry into the US shortly before their games. "We informed them they could arrive the day before their Los Angeles matches, as it’s only a 27-minute flight. It’s quite manageable, and they were required to depart on the match day," he added. "Once again, a 27-minute flight is not a significant issue. NFL teams travel across the country all the time."

During the discussion, presenter Jim White raised concerns about Somali referee Omar Artan's reported inability to travel to the US for the tournament. Giuliani accused the hosts of narrowing the focus of the conversation, which led to a rebuttal from co-host Simon Jordan. "Andrew, with all due respect, we don’t need to give you a pat on the back. You can do that for yourselves, and you’re doing it quite well," Jordan remarked.