The United States has maintained a set of travel restrictions that govern how Iran’s national soccer team moves between World Cup venues.
Under the current arrangement, the Iranian squad is required to reach each match site within a single day and to retreat immediately to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, after the final whistle, a shift that originated from a move away from Tucson.
Giuliani’s Defense of the Measures
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force overseeing the tournament, argued that the new schedule shortens overall travel time, noting that the relocation from Tucson to Tijuana has already cut hours of transit for the team.
The policy also raises logistical questions about visas, as every player and coach has been approved, yet several team officials have been denied entry on the basis of what authorities described as derogatory information.
U.S. officials have emphasized that no credible threats to the tournament have emerged, but they remain on high alert, underscoring the dual aim of safeguarding American citizens and preserving the experience of international visitors.
Giuliani expressed satisfaction with the opening ten days of the competition, describing the event as a "fantastic celebration of America" and suggesting that the restrictions have not dampened the overall spirit of the World Cup.