Iranian football team delayed leaving the US after World Cup 2026 opener

Following Iran's 2‑2 draw with New Zealand in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, the Iranian delegation experienced major immigration delays at Los Angeles International Airport. Officials said the “unjustified” hold‑up forced the team, including captain Mahdi Taremi and staff member Saeed Al‑Houi, to depart for Tijuana, Mexico, only in the early hours, disrupting their planned preparation. The delay stemmed from earlier visa‑issuance problems, a temporary ban on overnight stays in Arizona, and an initial U.S. decision to bar the squad from staying in the United States before matches – a rule later reversed to allow night‑before accommodations. Iranian fans also reported ticket cancellations and difficulty attending the tournament.

The Iranian state news agency IRNA quoted officials: “Os integrantes da seleção iraniana embarcaram tardiamente devido ao atraso injustificado no processo de saída de Mahdi Taremi e Saeed Al‑Houi.”