As the FIFA World Cup 2026 progresses, Iran's coach Amir Ghalenoei has voiced his concerns regarding the treatment of his team by the host nation, the United States. He highlighted ongoing travel restrictions and visa issues that have hindered the team's preparation for their upcoming match against Belgium.

Frustrations Over Travel Restrictions

Ghalenoei expressed his frustration, stating that the restrictions imposed by the U.S. have made it challenging for the Iranian team to train adequately. "We needed to have 24 hours (in Los Angeles), but they gave us less than 16 hours, and that is why we had to leave our training halfway," he explained. Despite these setbacks, he remains hopeful that FIFA will intervene to alleviate some of these restrictions in the coming days.

A Call for Fair Treatment

In his remarks, Ghalenoei emphasized the importance of separating football from politics, urging other teams and coaches to support the Iranian squad in their quest for fair treatment. "We are here for football, not politics," he stated, expressing disappointment over the lack of responses from other coaches regarding the situation. He underscored the dedication of his team to their nation, saying, "I am very glad that the Iranian nation is behind us." Ghalenoei's appeal reflects a desire for solidarity among teams during the tournament.

As Iran prepares for their match against Belgium, the coach's concerns highlight the broader issues of fairness and equality in international sports, particularly in the context of political tensions. The team's resilience and commitment to representing their country remain strong, even in the face of adversity.