Iran is planning to file a complaint with FIFA over U.S. travel restrictions that it says have unfairly disrupted its World Cup preparation. The dispute centers on visa uncertainty and strict movement rules tied to matches played in the United States.
The issue stems from requirements forcing the team to travel from its co-host base in Mexico to the United States for three group-stage matches within 24 hours of each game. That arrangement has raised concerns within the Iranian camp about preparation and recovery time.
On Friday, the Iranian federation said, "The Football Federation of Iran believes these restrictions are inconsistent with the principles of providing equal conditions for participating teams and may affect their technical preparation."
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said the disruption hurt performance in a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, calling the team the "most oppressed" in the tournament.
Iran will face Belgium on Sunday in Los Angeles and will conclude their Group G fixtures against Egypt on June 27 in Seattle.
The United States issued conditional visas to players and coaches of the Iran national football team but refused visas for certain technical staff, including Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, among others.
Earlier, Iranian football team striker Mehdi Taremi said, "We don't have the same beautiful experience we always talk about – the peace, the joy."
"This kind of tension, it undermines that joy. It undermines the message of FIFA," he added.
The latest dispute comes after earlier uncertainty surrounding Iran's participation. In March, Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the team would not be able to attend the tournament. However, Iran ultimately went on to compete.
