The United States has kept in place travel restrictions that confine Iran’s World Cup team to 24‑hour windows between matches, forcing a quick return to a training base in Tijuana, Mexico, after each game.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei has voiced frustration, describing his squad as “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup,” a comment that reflects the team’s sense of isolation under the new schedule.
The restrictions stem from a recent relocation of the Iranian camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, a move that trimmed travel time but also tightened the itinerary, leaving little margin for flexibility.
Security rationale
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force for the tournament, said the measures are intended to protect both American citizens and the influx of international visitors, even though no credible threats have been identified.
Giuliani added that the opening days of the competition have been a “fantastic celebration of America,” emphasizing the administration’s satisfaction with the event’s progress.