Iran say their national team has been delayed at an airport while traveling to Seattle for a World Cup group match against Egypt. The delay stems from alleged interference by U.S. authorities involving captain Mehdi Taremi and assistant coach Saeed Alhoei.
The Iranian Football Federation released a statement on June 24 detailing the issue. It said the squad arrived at the airport earlier that day but faced interference similar to previous occasions, leaving the rest of the team waiting for Taremi and Alhoei.
Iran have encountered repeated logistical challenges during the tournament. The team moved its training base to Mexico after earlier games in Los Angeles and has faced strict U.S. entry rules requiring arrival within 24 hours of matches and same-day departure.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security had approved travel to Seattle 48 hours before the Group G fixture. Iran lodged a prior complaint with FIFA, with coach Amir Ghalenoei previously describing his side as the tournament's most oppressed team.
A broader context includes a ceasefire between Iran and the United States that was extended this month following earlier conflict.
