The Iranian national team arrived at the FIFA World Cup under strict travel rules amid ongoing political tensions with the United States.
Players were only allowed to enter the U.S. on match days and had to leave immediately afterward, staying based in Tijuana, Mexico. Several key staff members were also denied U.S. visas, including analysts and media personnel.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei criticized the restrictions, saying they disrupted preparation and made training difficult compared to other teams.
Despite the challenges, Iran played their matches and recently drew 0–0 with Belgium in Los Angeles.
After that game, the team left the U.S. again and departed for Mexico. Before leaving, they placed a note in the dressing room.
In it, they reflected on representing Iran with pride and thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality, adding a message calling for peace, respect, and friendship between nations.
The team continues its World Cup campaign with their final group match against Egypt.
