Iran is preparing to submit a formal complaint to Fifa regarding what they describe as “restrictions imposed by the organisers” related to their participation in the World Cup. The team has been informed they can only arrive in Los Angeles 24 hours before their crucial match against Belgium this Sunday. Following their opening Group G game against New Zealand, head coach Amir Ghalenoei stated that they are the “The football federation of Iran believes that such restrictions are inconsistent with the principle of providing equal conditions for all participating teams and may negatively affect teams’ preparation processes. “Consequently, the federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with Fifa through the appropriate channels. Despite these limitations, Iran’s national team will continue its preparation program [sic] and remain fully focused on its upcoming match against Belgium.” team at the tournament, while captain Mehdi Taremi referred to the logistical challenges as a “disaster.”
The team’s dissatisfaction stems from being instructed to travel to their base in Tijuana, Mexico, immediately after their match at Los Angeles Stadium rather than returning for a recovery session the following day. This decision has raised concerns about their preparation time.
Iran feels it is necessary to voice their concerns to Fifa, having been told they will not be allowed to arrive in the U.S. two days prior to their match, similar to their experience before the 2-2 draw with New Zealand. The Iranian federation has argued for more time to prepare in the host city.
The timing of their match adds to their frustration, as the game is scheduled for midday local time in Los Angeles on Sunday, necessitating travel to the airport on Saturday. In contrast, their previous match had a 6 p.m. local kick-off.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) expressed.
“The football federation of Iran believes that such restrictions are inconsistent with the principle of providing equal conditions for all participating teams and may negatively affect teams’ preparation processes.”
They concluded by stating, “Consequently, the federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with Fifa through the appropriate channels. Despite these limitations, Iran’s national team will continue its preparation program and remain fully focused on its upcoming match against Belgium.”
Fifa has been approached for a response to these developments.
