Iran's World Cup preparation disrupted by U.S. travel restrictions

Iran's national soccer team faces significant logistical challenges ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to kick off on June 8. Due to U.S. travel bans, the team must fly from Mexico to the U.S. for each group stage match without overnight stays. FIFA declined Iran's request to relocate its games to Canada or Mexico amid ongoing tensions. The team's training camp was moved to Mexico shortly before the tournament, complicating preparations further. Security concerns also surround the matches, with potential anti-Iran demonstrations expected from Iranian Americans.

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