Iran Files FIFA Complaint Over U.S. Travel Restrictions

The Iranian Football Federation has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over travel restrictions and visa issues that it claims have disrupted the national team’s preparations for World Cup matches in the United States.

Iranian officials say their request to travel to Los Angeles two days before Sunday’s game against Belgium was denied, leaving players with less time to rest and acclimatize.

The federation argues that the decision undermines equal conditions for participating teams and could negatively affect performance.

The complaint comes amid ongoing political tensions between Washington and Tehran, despite a recently signed interim memorandum of understanding aimed at easing hostilities.

The agreement reopened the Strait of Hormuz and initiated a 60-day negotiating period, but Iranian officials insist that travel and visa restrictions continue to impact their squad.

In a statement, the federation expressed dissatisfaction and confirmed it had lodged a protest through FIFA’s refereeing and organizational channels.

It is not the first time Iran has raised concerns: before their match against New Zealand, U.S. authorities reportedly authorized travel only one day before kickoff.