Iran’s national team will fly into Los Angeles just a day before their first World Cup match against New Zealand, the federation confirmed Tuesday.
The squad is based in Tijuana, Mexico, despite playing all three group games in the US. Players secured visas, but 15 support staff were denied entry amid ongoing tensions between the two countries.
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Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali warned officials would halt matches if “flags or symbols other than that of the Islamic Republic of Iran” appeared, raising concerns over political flashpoints. FIFA rules ban political displays inside stadiums.
Iran face New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26.
