Iran alleges unfair treatment at World Cup, coach says team ordered to leave US after opening match
Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign has been hit by fresh controversy after head coach Amir Ghalenoei claimed that their team was ordered to leave the United States immediately following its opening match against New Zealand and return to its training base in Mexico. The complaint comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, which have already complicated Iran’s preparations for the tournament.
Iran opened its World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand on Monday, but the result was quickly overshadowed by concerns raised by team officials over travel arrangements and visa restrictions.
According to Ghalenoei, the team had expected to remain overnight in California to allow players sufficient recovery time before returning to Tijuana. Instead, the squad was reportedly instructed to leave immediately after the match.
The coach said officials were not provided with a clear explanation for the decision, describing the situation as unusual and disruptive to the team’s preparations.
The travel issue is the latest challenge faced by Iran during a politically sensitive World Cup campaign. Team officials have also complained that several members of the delegation, including football federation representatives, support staff and media personnel, were unable to travel after reportedly being denied US visas.
Iran had earlier sought to have its group-stage matches moved outside the United States, citing the political climate surrounding the tournament but that request, however, was not approved.
The match against New Zealand itself unfolded under the shadow of the ongoing tensions, with supporters of the Iranian team sharing the stands with Iranian-Americans protesting against the government in Tehran.
Despite the off-field distractions, Iran salvaged a point through Mohammad Mohebbi’s second-half equaliser. However, questions surrounding the team’s treatment and logistical arrangements are increasingly threatening to overshadow its World Cup campaign.
Iran will next face Belgium at SoFi Stadium on Sunday as scrutiny over the intersection of politics and football continues to intensify.