White House Defends Iran Visa Policy at World Cup

Iran’s Base Camp Switch to Tijuana

The Iranian Football Federation negotiated a last‑minute move for its training facility from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. The change came after doubts about whether players and staff would secure U.S. visas. White House officials described the relocation as a win‑win for all parties, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed her government’s willingness to host the squad. Security officials also cited the need to keep individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps out of the United States. After the tournament, Iran’s coach and players publicly thanked Tijuana, calling Mexico “our second home and our second team.”

Visas, Support Staff, and Early‑Entry Restrictions

U.S. officials eventually granted visas to all Iranian players just ten days before the opening match, but key managerial and administrative staff were still turned away. At the tournament’s start, Tehran’s side was limited to a single day’s notice before entering the country, prompting coach Amir Ghalenoei to label his squad the “most oppressed team” at the World Cup. The restriction was later relaxed for the match in Seattle, where the team was allowed entry two days in advance. Despite the loosened timeline, the Department of Homeland Security insisted the squad must leave the U.S. on the same day their game concluded. The fluctuating access rules created a tense logistical reality for the Iranian delegation.