Iran’s national football team remains subject to stringent US entry restrictions despite a newly signed diplomatic framework deal between Washington and Tehran. The agreement, finalized by President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, contains no provisions easing immigration conditions for Iranian athletes participating in this summer's World Cup.
The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran has filed a formal complaint with FIFA. Officials argue current US protocols violate principles of equal competition. Under existing rules, Iranian players may enter the United States only one day before each match and must depart immediately afterward. This schedule prevents adequate recovery and preparation time.
White House task force head Andrew Giuliani dismissed the federation's concerns. He stated these procedures were established at the tournament's outset and apply uniformly to matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. Requests for earlier arrival ahead of upcoming fixtures have been denied.
Tensions extend beyond player logistics. US authorities have refused visas for approximately 15 backroom staff members, including federation president Mehdi Taj. Consequently, the team is currently based in Tijuana, Mexico, rather than within the United States where all group-stage matches are scheduled.
FIFA maintains limited authority in such disputes. While host city agreements require nondiscriminatory visa environments, the organization has previously stated immigration enforcement falls outside its jurisdiction. Although the Trump administration exempted World Cup participants from broader travel bans, entry timing and conditions remain at the discretion of US border officials.