"Worst treated at the entire World Cup": Iran files complaint with FIFA

Iran's football federation is lodging a formal complaint with FIFA, protesting what it calls "restrictions" imposed on the national team during the World Cup. The federation asserts that these limitations are jeopardizing the team's preparation for upcoming matches, specifically citing issues with travel arrangements and visa denials for delegation members. A spokesperson for the team stated that players and staff are only permitted to travel to Los Angeles one day before their match against Belgium. This, they argue, prevents adequate preparation and rest. Iran's delegation relocated its base camp to Mexico due to geopolitical tensions with the United States, necessitating frequent travel between Mexico and the U.S. for group stage games. The team's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, had previously described his squad as the "worst treated at the entire World Cup." Iran contends that these restrictions violate the principle of equal treatment for all participating nations and could negatively impact their performance on the field. The federation plans to formally express its displeasure through appropriate channels.

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These limitations are in conflict with the principle of equality for all participating countries and risk harming preparation.