Iran captain Mehdi Taremi slams FIFA over World Cup 2026 travel restrictions

Iran’s national team, eliminated by Egypt in the early morning match, expressed deep frustration over the logistical hurdles it faced at the 2026 World Cup. Captain Mehdi Taremi described the tournament as “catastrophic” and accused FIFA of failing to address the “restrictions imposed on Iran.”

Because of a U.S. entry ban stemming from strained U.S.–Iran relations, the squad was forced to base itself in Tijuana, Mexico, and make hurried border crossings for matches. Taremi said FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the team’s locker room after the first game but “did nothing.” He also claimed that some officials want Iran excluded from the competition.

Iran finished the group stage with a 1‑1 draw against Egypt, placing third in Group 7 and awaiting the final group‑stage results to learn whether they will advance to the knockout round.