Iran’s national football coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised what he described as “oppressive” travel conditions facing his team during the World Cup, following a 2-2 draw with New Zealand.
Ghalenoei said on Monday that repeated last-minute changes to the team’s travel plans—linked to diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States—had disrupted preparations and affected performance on the pitch.
The Iranian squad was initially expected to base itself in Arizona but was later moved to Tijuana, Mexico amid uncertainty over US visa approvals and concerns about the team’s presence in the United States.
According to Iran’s football officials, further disruptions followed after the match, with the team reportedly denied permission to remain in Los Angeles overnight for recovery and instead required to return immediately to their base in Mexico.
“We’re supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return tomorrow lunchtime, but they haven’t permitted us,” Ghalenoei said, adding that the situation had left the team frustrated and exhausted.
Players cite exhaustion and visa issues
Forward Mehdi Taremi also expressed concern over the chaotic schedule, saying the frequent travel and lack of proper recovery time had affected the squad’s preparation.
He noted that the team had been forced into a tight and stressful travel loop between Mexico and the United States, leaving little time to adjust before matches.
Several members of the coaching and support staff were also reportedly unable to travel due to visa restrictions, forcing team officials to take on additional responsibilities during the tournament.
Calls for FIFA intervention
Both players and coaching staff called on football’s governing body to intervene and ensure fair conditions for all teams competing in the tournament.
“It’s not good for football,” Taremi said. “I think FIFA have to help us more than this.”
Despite the difficulties, Ghalenoei praised his players for securing a draw, though he suggested the travel burden had contributed to fatigue and physical strain, including muscle cramps among some squad members.
FIFA and the US State Department had not publicly responded to the concerns at the time of reporting.
