Iran’s Football Federation has intensified its criticism of the conditions surrounding its participation in the 2026 World Cup, accusing organisers of treating the national team unfairly and warning that the situation could become a lasting stain on the tournament’s history.
The federation has formally complained to FIFA over restrictions affecting the movement of the Iranian delegation within the United States, one of the host nations of the competition. Iranian officials have also raised concerns about visa difficulties faced by some members of the team’s support staff.
The dispute has emerged while Iran continues its World Cup campaign, creating an off-field controversy that threatens to overshadow the team’s preparations for upcoming matches.
FIFA Complaint Filed Over Travel and Visa Concerns
According to Iranian officials, the complaint centres on what they describe as limitations imposed on the delegation’s ability to move freely within the United States, as well as the inability of several accompanying personnel to secure the necessary travel documentation.
The federation argues that these issues have complicated logistical planning and affected the team’s ability to prepare under the same conditions as other nations competing in the tournament.
As a result, Iran has opted to establish its tournament base in the Mexican city of Tijuana rather than remain in the United States for extended periods.
Under the arrangement, the squad intends to travel into the United States shortly before each group-stage fixture and leave immediately after matches have been completed.
Iranian officials believe the travel schedule places additional strain on the players and disrupts normal preparations during one of football’s biggest competitions.
Federation Says Situation Contradicts FIFA Principles
Speaking publicly about the matter, Hedayat Mombeini, Secretary General of the Iranian Football Federation, argued that the circumstances are inconsistent with FIFA’s commitment to equal treatment among participating nations.
He said: “these measures contradict the principles of equal opportunities advocated by FIFA,” adding that Iran was not receiving the same treatment as other teams involved in the tournament.
Mombeini went further in his criticism, questioning whether countries unable to fully meet FIFA requirements should be entrusted with hosting major international competitions.
He stated: “Countries that are unable to fully implement FIFA regulations should not be allowed to host major tournaments. What is happening with Iran will remain a black mark on the World Cup record forever.”
The comments represent one of the strongest public criticisms made by an official involved in the tournament since the competition began.
US Organisers Reject Allegations
Tournament organisers in the United States have rejected suggestions that Iran has been treated unfairly.
Andrew Giuliani, who is overseeing aspects of tournament organisation from the White House, said the arrangements concerning Iran’s travel and accommodation had been discussed and agreed upon months before the start of the competition.
According to Giuliani, organisers remain willing to engage in discussions if circumstances require further adjustments.
He said: “all options remain open for discussion if the need arises, and the organizers are keen to provide a fair competitive environment for all teams participating in the finals.”
His remarks were aimed at reassuring participating nations that tournament officials are committed to maintaining equal conditions for all competitors.
Focus Turns to Belgium Match
Despite the ongoing dispute, Iran must continue its World Cup campaign on the field.
The national team is preparing for a meeting with Belgium in Los Angeles, although debate continues over the timing of the delegation’s arrival.
Iranian officials had hoped to arrive earlier, but the team is expected to travel to the city only one day before the match.
The issue has drawn additional scrutiny because a similar situation occurred before Iran’s opening fixture of the tournament.
Iran began its World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand after arriving in Los Angeles just one day before kick-off. Following the match, the delegation quickly departed the city.
Tensions Continue Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
With preparations for the Belgium encounter under way, the disagreement between the Iranian Football Federation and tournament organisers shows little sign of fading.
Iranian officials maintain that travel restrictions and visa complications have undermined their ability to compete under equal conditions, while US organisers insist that previously agreed arrangements remain in place and that a fair environment is being provided.
As the World Cup progresses, the dispute has become one of the tournament’s most prominent off-field stories, adding a layer of tension to Iran’s efforts to advance beyond the group stage.
