Iran Football (Image: Getty)Iran are preparing to submit an official complaint to FIFA after expressing frustration over travel restrictions imposed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Iranian Football Federation believes the rules have created an unfair situation for the team and have negatively affected their preparations. The issue has become a major talking point ahead of Iran’s important Group G match against Belgium on Sunday in Los Angeles. Officials argue that the restrictions have not allowed the team enough time to settle and prepare properly before matches.The controversy began after Iran’s opening game against New Zealand ended in a 2-2 draw. Team officials were informed that players had to leave Los Angeles immediately after the match and return to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico. Iran had hoped to remain in the host city longer for recovery and preparation. The federation is especially concerned because the upcoming match against Belgium will kick off at midday, giving the squad even less time to adjust before the crucial encounter.Iran unhappy with FIFA World Cup 2026 travel arrangements in USAIran’s football authorities believe the current travel arrangements are placing the team at a disadvantage compared to other nations. According to the federation, they requested permission to arrive in Los Angeles two days before the Belgium match but were informed that they could only enter the city 24 hours before kick-off.The team faced a similar situation before its opening match against New Zealand. After that game, players and staff were required to travel back to Tijuana immediately rather than remain in Los Angeles for a recovery session. Iranian officials feel this has disrupted the squad’s schedule and reduced valuable preparation time.Head coach Amir Ghalenoei recently voiced his frustration, suggesting that no other team at the tournament has faced the same level of difficulty. He indicated that Iran had encountered significant challenges throughout the competition and felt the team had been treated unfairly.Captain Mehdi Taremi also expressed concern over the situation. He explained that the logistical problems experienced during recent weeks had made preparations extremely difficult for the players and coaching staff.In an official statement, the Iranian Football Federation said it believes the restrictions do not align with the principle of equal treatment for all participating teams. The federation argued that limiting travel and preparation time could affect a team’s ability to perform at its best during the tournament.As a result, Iran plans to formally raise the matter with FIFA through the appropriate channels. Despite the dispute, the federation stressed that the national team remains fully focused on preparing for the decisive Group G fixture against Belgium.