Iran to File FIFA Complaint Over 2026 World Cup Travel Restrictions

The Iranian Football Federation has announced plans to file an official complaint with FIFA regarding travel restrictions imposed on the national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The restrictions have limited Iran's arrival time to one day before their match against Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, despite the federation's request to arrive two days in advance. Iranian officials argue that these limitations place their team in unequal conditions compared to other participating nations and could adversely affect team preparation and performance. The complaint highlights concerns that the restrictions contradict FIFA's principle of ensuring equal conditions for all national teams competing in the tournament. The 2026 World Cup is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the tournament concluding on July 19.