US temporarily eases restrictions on Iran’s World Cup team
The United States has eased restrictions on Iran’s football team for the World Cup, allowing them to travel into the US two days before their next match rather than one, according to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The restrictions placed on the players had led the Iranian coach to say that his country’s was “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup”.
A DHS spokesperson said that the Iranian team will still be required to leave the day the match ends.
Iranian football players warm up before the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Belgium and Iran at Los Angeles Stadium on 21 June 2026 (Harry How/AFP)