A U.S. official stated that Iran's national soccer team was informed of the plan to depart the country shortly after their World Cup match, refuting claims of an unexpected expulsion. The team's visa situation and entry conditions were also clarified.
This situation highlights the geopolitical tensions influencing international sporting events and the strict U.S. entry policies for individuals with alleged ties to Iranian state entities.
The U.S. has countered claims from Iran's national soccer team that they were forced to leave the country immediately after their first World Cup match. Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, stated that the team was informed of the departure process all along.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei had expressed that the team was ordered to leave for their training base in Mexico just hours after their 2-2 draw with New Zealand, contrary to their expectation of staying overnight in California for recovery. Additionally, Iran winger Mehdi Torabi's entry visa expired after the first game, prompting officials to seek a new one.
Giuliani also confirmed that while all players and coaches received visas, some support staff and officials were denied entry. He referenced previous statements by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, indicating that individuals with direct ties to Iran's Revolutionary Guard would not be permitted into the U.S., regardless of the World Cup.
The Iranian team's World Cup participation has been marked by upheaval, including FIFA's rejection of their request to relocate their group-stage matches. Iran captain Mehdi Taremi also described significant travel and security checks during their transit.