Iran World Cup team granted extra day to enter US before Seattle match

The United States Department of Homeland Security announced that the Iran national football team will be allowed to arrive in Seattle two days before its third group‑stage match against Egypt on June 26, rather than the usual one‑day entry. The team must return to its base in Tijuana, Mexico, on the same day the match ends. The change follows a complaint by the Iranian Football Federation to FIFA over perceived unfair treatment.

Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the limited time – less than 16 hours on arrival – forced the squad to cut training short and left the players “one of the most pressured teams in the tournament.” He urged authorities to permit a two‑day stay to ensure adequate technical and physical preparation. White House task‑force leader Andrew Giuliani explained that the adjustment was considered after earlier travel legs proved smooth, while overall security measures and protocols remain unchanged.