Iran’s national team coach Amir Ghalenoei has publicly blasted the treatment his squad has received from US authorities during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing his players as “the most oppressed” team in the tournament. The complaints center on travel restrictions that have forced the Iranian delegation to shuttle back to Mexico immediately after playing matches on US soil.
Following a 1-1 draw against Egypt on June 26, Ghalenoei didn’t hold back. He urged FIFA to step in and establish protections that would prevent host nations from imposing similar logistical burdens on participating teams in future tournaments.
Same-day returns and denied visas
The team has been required to return to Tijuana on the same day as their matches played at US venues.
Key support staff, including the head of Iran’s football federation, were denied visas entirely.
