Iran’s national football team have raised concerns over what they describe as extremely strict and disruptive travel conditions following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand in the World Cup match played in the United States.
The players were reportedly instructed to leave the United States only hours after the final whistle, as part of security and immigration arrangements linked to their participation in the competition.
According to team officials, the squad was required to immediately depart the country and return to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, shortly after the match, leaving little time for recovery or post-match recovery routines.
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration over the situation, stating that the restrictions have made preparation and recovery extremely difficult for his players.
He noted that the team was not given sufficient time to rest after the match before being required to travel.
The unusual travel arrangement stems from broader political and security tensions affecting Iran’s participation in the tournament.
Reports indicate that due to strained relations between the United States and Iran, the team has faced multiple logistical challenges throughout the competition.
Earlier in the tournament, the squad was forced to relocate its training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Mexico.
In addition, several members of the travelling delegation were reportedly denied entry visas into the United States, limiting the size of the team’s support staff.
Striker Mehdi Taremi also highlighted the difficulties faced by the squad, revealing that key officials such as the federation president, vice president, and regular media staff were not present with the team due to travel restrictions.
In their absence, other staff members have had to take on additional responsibilities, including media duties.
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The situation has reportedly created a highly unusual environment for the players, who must operate under strict time limits whenever they enter the United States for matches.
Officials say the team is required to leave the country within hours after each game and return to their base in Mexico.
Despite these challenges, Iran managed to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a competitive encounter, showing resilience on the pitch amid off-field disruptions.
Iran is expected to continue their group stage campaign under the same arrangements as authorities maintain tight security and immigration controls throughout the competition.
