The Iranian team will have to leave the United States immediately after Friday’s third group stage game against Egypt.
Published June 23, 2026
The administration of US President Donald Trump announced it would allow Iran to enter the country two days before its final World Cup group stage game against Egypt and extend their stay by an additional day.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on Tuesday that Team Melli will not be allowed to stay in the United States overnight after the game.
“For the Iranian team’s third game in Seattle on June 26, the team was allowed to enter the United States two days before the game,” a DHS spokesperson told Al Jazeera.
The ministry did not explain the reasons behind the decision, but it coincides with a decline in tensions between Iran and the US amid a cease-fire agreement and diplomatic talks.
“The Iranian team will still be required to leave the stadium on the day of the game. Overall safety measures and procedures will remain the same,” a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said.
“We remain committed to providing the safest tournament possible for our players, staff and fans.”
Iranian players and sports officials criticized the U.S. organizers’ treatment of Team Melli, who had to set up a base camp in Mexico while playing all three group stage matches on the U.S. West Coast.
U.S. officials suggested the restrictions on the Iranian team were related to national security, but gave no details on what threat the internationally known athlete’s stay in Iran might pose to anyone.
Last week, Iranian coach Amir Galenoei described his team as “the most suppressed team in the entire World Cup.”
The Iranian side was forced to miss practice the day before the match due to travel. Galenoei suggested that the fact that he was sent off immediately after the match also affected his post-match recovery program.
Speaking before the opening game between Iran and New Zealand in Los Angeles, Galenoei said US travel guidelines were posing a challenge for Team Melli.
“This kind of behavior will have a negative impact on the spirit of football,” Galenoei told reporters. “Whether we win or lose, it’s a difficult feeling.”
Many fans and advocates have also criticized the US treatment of the Iranian team and the Trump administration’s extensive travel policies during the World Cup.
Before the tournament, the United States denied entry to award-winning Somali referee Omar Altan, who was scheduled to compete in the tournament.
Iran will go into the match against Egypt with two points from two games. A win will guarantee a place in the round of 32. Depending on other results, a draw may be enough.
Egypt has four points, and if they win, they will be certain to finish first in the group. Even if they draw, they will still qualify for the knockout stage, and even if they lose, there is a good chance they will make it through. This also depends on other results.
The top two teams in each group and the best eight of the 12 third-place teams qualify for the next round.
