Iran coach frustrated by last-minute travel rearrangement after World Cup opener
Iran national team manager Amir Ghalenoei has voiced his frustration over an unexpected alteration to his squad’s travel plans following their 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their opening Group G match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday evening, June 15, 2026.
Addressing journalists after the game, Ghalenoei explained that the team was informed at short notice that they would have to leave the United States and return to Mexico immediately after the fixture in Los Angeles.
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The coach noted that prior arrangements had indicated the squad would be allowed to remain in the U.S. until midday on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, giving players additional time to rest and recover before their next assignment.
“They delayed our arrivals, [now] they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery,” Ghalenoei said. “They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles.” He said.
Iran, whose World Cup base camp is located in Tijuana, Mexico, had only arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday, less than 24 hours before kickoff.
Forward Mehdi Taremi also expressed disappointment with the logistical complications, describing the circumstances as a “disaster”.
“It’s a lot of stress for the players and staffs, we are just tired of this situation, it’s so bad, and it affects our team,” Taremi said.
The match was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who watched from the stands at Los Angeles Stadium. According to Taremi, Infantino later visited the Iranian dressing room to discuss the issue with team representatives.
“He wants to help us,” the striker said.
The controversy comes as Iran seeks to navigate both on-field challenges and off-field logistical concerns during its World Cup campaign.
Difficult situation
Iran are scheduled to play three group-stage matches on American soil during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with fixtures set to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The unusual travel requirements mean the team will not be able to remain in the United States between matches, forcing players and staff to shuttle back and forth from their Mexican base throughout the group phase of the tournament.
Meanwhile, the restrictions come after Iran previously requested to have their matches moved to Mexico, but the world football governing body, FIFA declined the request.
