Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised the treatment of his team during the 2026 World Cup, claiming they are the “most oppressed” side at the tournament after being forced to make unexpected travel changes following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand.
Speaking after Monday’s match, Ghalenoei revealed that Iran had planned to remain in Los Angeles overnight and hold a recovery session before returning to their training base. Instead, the squad was instructed immediately after the final whistle to fly back to Tijuana, Mexico.
Iran had originally intended to base themselves in Tucson, Arizona, throughout the tournament. However, logistical complications and visa-related issues prompted a late switch to Tijuana shortly before the competition began.
Ghalenoei said the decision to send the team back immediately created further difficulties for a squad already dealing with multiple challenges during the World Cup.
“We don’t know why they are sending us back,” he said. “We were supposed to arrive two nights before the match but that was not allowed. We were also expected to stay after the game to recover and return the following day.”
The coach argued that outside parties appeared to be making decisions on Iran’s behalf and said the situation had become increasingly frustrating.
Iran’s participation in the tournament has been overshadowed by uncertainty linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and related security concerns. Several key members of the team’s support staff were reportedly denied entry visas to the United States, while the Iranian Football Federation also raised concerns after its ticket allocation was revoked shortly before the tournament started.
Following the draw with New Zealand, FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the Iranian dressing room and met players and staff as concerns surrounding the team continued.
Captain Mehdi Taremi described the situation as a “disaster” and called on FIFA to provide greater support.
Taremi welcomed Infantino’s visit and said it gave players an opportunity to explain their concerns directly, but stressed that more practical assistance was needed.
He said the disruption was affecting the team’s ability to prepare properly for matches, adding that the pressure on players and staff was already high during a World Cup campaign.
Iran return to Los Angeles for their Group G clash against Belgium on 21 June before completing the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on 27 June.