Iran’s national football team is preparing to lodge an official complaint with Fifa, the World Cup organiser, over what their coach has branded “oppressive” travel restrictions in the United States.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei stated this week his side were the “most oppressed” at the tournament. Though all three of Iran’s group games are being played in the United States, the team is only allowed into the country the day before each fixture and must leave immediately afterwards.
These limitations, imposed amid conflict between the two nations, forced Iran to establish their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, rather than their intended US base.
A request to arrive two days prior to their next match against Belgium, in Los Angeles on Sunday, which kicks off at 12pm local time, was denied. The Football Federation of Iran has confirmed an official complaint will now be made to Fifa.
Quoted in a number of media outlets, a spokesperson said: “Despite the technical reasons presented by the federation, the request was once again denied. The federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with Fifa through the appropriate channels.”
This follows a similar request being turned down prior to their opening Group G game against New Zealand on Monday, also played in LA.
Speaking about the travel restrictions a US administration official explained: “We will not allow the Iranian team to abuse this system to sneak terrorists into the United States under false pretences.”
This isn’t the only issue that the Iran team have faced pertaining to this World Cup as numerous members of the backroom staff and federation have reportedly been refused visas to enter the United States as well.
Ahead of the 2-2 draw with New Zealand, 300 to 500 protesters gathered outside the stadium waving anti-Iranian government signs and flags, protesting against the country’s regime and its crackdown on pro-democracy protestors while inside loud jeers were heard from some sections of the crowd during the Iranian national anthem.
Fifa has been approached for comment regarding the Iranian team’s schedule.
