Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has accused the United States of treating his team unfairly during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling on FIFA to ensure future host nations provide equal conditions for all participating teams.
The criticism came after Iran finished their Group G campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt, leaving their hopes of reaching the Round of 32 dependent on results in other groups.
Ghalenoei said his players had to overcome difficult travel arrangements throughout the tournament after their original training base in Arizona was relocated to Tijuana, Mexico, before the competition began.
Coach questions travel restrictions
For Iran’s opening two matches in Los Angeles, the squad was only permitted to enter the United States one day before each game and had to leave on the same day after the matches because of visa restrictions.
Although the team was allowed to arrive two days before their final group game against Egypt in Seattle, they were still required to return to Tijuana immediately after the match.
“To my players and the team, I want to say to them I’m proud of them. What these young people, these players have done, it should be written in history because the host country treated us very unfairly,” Ghalenoei said.
“Despite all of these problems, we’ve been able to perform well and the world is proud of Iranians and our team.”
He added: “I urge FIFA: don’t let hosts treat players and teams the same way in future World Cups.”
Knockout hopes still alive
Iran appeared to have secured automatic qualification when Shoja Khalilzadeh scored in stoppage time against Egypt, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
“I used to think that we were really a totally oppressed team, but after these three games, I have noticed that we also have bad luck as well,” Ghalenoei added.
Captain Mehdi Taremi also criticised the tournament logistics.
“How is it possible we always have to travel to Tijuana? We love the people of Mexico. We love Tijuana, it’s so good, they are so humble people. We love them.
“But as professional players, in a professional competition, it’s not right.”
Iran remain sixth in the standings among third-placed teams and must now wait for the remaining group matches to determine whether they will qualify for the knockout stage.