Iran’s national football team departs Turkey for Mexico to begin a World Cup camp, as a dispute over US visas for some members of the delegation escalates between Tehran and Washington. Multiple outlets report that the squad leaves Antalya after nearly three weeks of training and that the team flies to Tijuana, where it is expected to be based for the tournament. Iranian state media and officials say players and technical staff receive visas, but that a “large” number of managerial, executive and administrative staff are denied or left without entry documents. Iranian organisations including the Iran Football Federation and Iran’s embassy in Turkey criticise the US for “discriminatory” and “political interference” in sport, saying the issue would be pursued with FIFA. Reuters-style reporting in the set also notes that US officials say visas “necessary” for Iran to compete have been issued, including for athletes and necessary support staff, and deny that the team is being blocked from participation. A US administration official additionally argues the US will not allow misuse of systems intended for entry to the United States. Iranian state media says the matter is expected to be followed up from Mexico.