Iran's World Cup Travel Plans Under Scrutiny Amid Restrictions

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 unfolds, Iran's national football team grapples with significant travel restrictions imposed by U.S. authorities. The team can only travel to match venues within 24 hours of kick-off and must return immediately after games, leading to frustration among players and coaches. With a recent complaint lodged with FIFA and ongoing discussions about future match arrangements, the situation remains dynamic. Iran's journey began with a draw against New Zealand, and they are set to face Belgium next. This article delves into the complexities of their travel plans and the implications for their World Cup campaign.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2026, 09:37 IST

Travel Arrangements for Iran's National Team

Officials in the United States are actively reviewing the travel logistics for Iran's national football team as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Currently, the team is expected to return to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, immediately after matches, according to Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force.

Iran has voiced its dissatisfaction with the limitations imposed on their travel, which only permits the team to reach match venues within 24 hours before kick-off and mandates their swift departure post-game. Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach, has labeled Iran as 'the most oppressed team in the entire World Cup.'

On Friday, Iran's football federation filed a complaint with FIFA after the U.S. denied their request to travel to Los Angeles two days ahead of their Group G match against Belgium.

Giuliani mentioned that discussions regarding Iran's third Group G match against Egypt in Seattle would occur following their match against Belgium on Sunday.

'The situation is fluid,' Giuliani stated. 'We have a plan in place. After the match against Belgium, they will take a short flight back to Tijuana.'

'We will evaluate the situation after match two and will have discussions regarding match three in Seattle,' he added.

Iran relocated their World Cup base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana due to uncertainties surrounding travel and entry into the U.S. Giuliani supported this move, stating it alleviated travel burdens for the team.

'The transition from Tucson to Tijuana has been beneficial for everyone involved, especially as it shortens their travel time to Los Angeles,' he noted.

He also addressed the issue of visa approvals for the Iranian delegation, confirming that while players and coaches have received their visas, some officials have not due to derogatory information.

'All players and coaches have been granted visas. However, some team officials are still pending approval due to concerns we've identified,' he explained.

The U.S. official emphasized that tournament organizers are committed to ensuring security during the event.

'We aim to host an exceptional soccer tournament where everyone feels welcome while ensuring the safety of American citizens and international visitors alike,' Giuliani remarked.

He reassured that no specific threats to the tournament have been identified.

'Our intelligence community has intensified its efforts since the start of the year, and we are in constant discussions. Currently, there are no credible threats,' he stated.

Iran began their Group G journey with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. They are set to face Belgium on Sunday before concluding their group stage against Egypt in Seattle.

All four teams in Group G—Iran, New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt—are currently tied with one point each after the first round of matches, with New Zealand leading based on goal difference.