‘Most oppressed team’: Iran blasts World Cup treatment Iranian players and staff have accused World Cup organizers of forcing them to compete under unfair conditions due to US visa problems and travel restrictions. The team has been based in Tijuana, Mexico, and has faced significant travel and immigration delays, impacting their recovery and performance. These issues have led to complaints from team captain Mehdi Taremi and head coach Amir Ghalenoei, who described the team as ‘the most oppressed’.

• Iran’s World Cup team alleges unfair treatment by organizers due to US visa problems and travel restrictions.
• The team is based in Tijuana, Mexico, and has experienced lengthy travel and immigration delays between Mexico and the US.
• Captain Mehdi Taremi stated that the travel schedule and fatigue are negatively impacting the team’s performance.
• Head coach Amir Ghalenoei referred to Iran as ‘the most oppressed’ team at the tournament.
• Previous complaints include the withdrawal of Iran’s official ticket allocation and denials of US visas for support staff and media.
• Similar visa and entry issues have affected other international teams and individuals participating in or involved with the tournament.