White House defends Iran's visa situation during World Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 9, 2026, 8:38 AM
Last updated Jul 9, 2026
The White House addressed criticisms regarding visa restrictions on Iran's national soccer team during the World Cup. Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, stated that the team's decision to train in Tijuana instead of Tucson helped alleviate logistics issues. While all players received visas just before their first match, some key support staff were reportedly denied entry. Iran's coach labeled the team the 'most oppressed' at the tournament, but Giuliani emphasized the accommodations made for the team, citing a need for security and travel parity. Following their elimination, Iran expressed gratitude to Tijuana for their hospitality.
- •Iran's national team trained in Tijuana, Mexico, instead of Arizona.
- •All players received visas 10 days before the opening match.
- •Some support staff were denied entry to the U.S.
- •Iran's coach called the team the 'most oppressed' at the World Cup.
- •The team expressed gratitude to Tijuana after their elimination.
- 8:38 AMYahoo Sports — White House breaks silence on explosive Iran World Cup visa row
"Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force for the World Cup, said the cross-border logistics worked smoothly for all parties despite Iran's complaints during the group stage
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