Iran’s football federation announces that the national team travels to the United States on a charter flight one day before its first 2026 World Cup group match. The team plays its opening matches in the United States, with group-stage fixtures scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle. The federation says the players have obtained the visas required to enter the US and participate in the matches. However, multiple sources report that not all delegation members receive visas, indicating ongoing administrative complications ahead of the tournament’s start. The dispute arises just days before the 2026 World Cup begins. Several outlets note the tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. One report adds that, although Iran plays three group matches in the US, the squad is based in Tijuana, Mexico during the tournament. The federation’s spokesperson states the travel arrangements follow FIFA’s program for the team delegation.