Iran Slam US Travel Rules as World Cup Injustice

Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup has been overshadowed by a political dispute over travel restrictions, with coach Amir Ghalenoei declaring his team the most mistreated side at the entire tournament, according to Reuters.

The restrictions, which the US government is defending, mean Iran's squad can only travel to their match venues within 24 hours of kick-off and must return directly to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico immediately after each game. Other competing nations face no such limitations.

Reuters reports that discussions between the relevant authorities are still ongoing, leaving Iran in limbo as they continue their Group G campaign. The US government has stood by the measures without offering a timetable for any resolution.

The situation casts a long shadow over what should be a celebration of football, raising serious questions about whether a host nation can apply conditions to a competing team that no other side faces.