Iran's Football Team to Travel to U.S. for World Cup

The Iran Football Federation announced that the national team will travel to the United States on June 14, a day before their first match in the 2026 World Cup against New Zealand in Los Angeles. The team faces challenges due to visa issues, with 15 administrative and management staff members unable to enter the U.S.

This situation arises amid ongoing military conflict in Tehran. Despite these challenges, the Iranian team will be based in Tijuana throughout the tournament, as per FIFA's program.

The team will play its group stage matches in the U.S., with subsequent games scheduled against Belgium in Seattle on June 21 and Egypt on June 26. Ahmad Donyamali, Iran's sports minister, has warned against displaying certain symbols during matches, indicating that officials will intervene if necessary.

Amir Mehdi Alavi, a spokesperson for the Iranian federation, confirmed the travel arrangements through a statement to ISNA news agency.