A new diplomatic scandal has erupted at the 2026 World Cup, directly impacting the football world. The Iranian national team, facing a critical situation before a decisive group stage match, has refused to fly to Seattle to play against Egypt. The cause of the mass protest by the players is the actions of US authorities and prolonged visa restrictions.
Situation in Tijuana and the Border Incident
Due to difficulties in obtaining visas and strict security measures, the Iranian team is forced to base themselves not in the USA, but in the Mexican city of Tijuana. The city has unique infrastructure: the local airport is located directly on the border with the United States and is equipped with a special crossing where US border control is conducted.
It was during these procedures that an incident occurred, triggering the refusal to fly. The American side detained a key attacking figure — the main striker Mehdi Taremi, as well as the assistant coach Saeid Alhoiei. In a show of solidarity and demanding an immediate resolution to the situation, the rest of the national team players refused to board the plane intended for the flight to Seattle.
Political Context and Player Fatigue
The head coach of the Iranian national team, Amir Galenoy, has repeatedly stated that constant bureaucratic obstacles and restrictions on crossing the border are exhausting the team. Previously, US authorities only allowed entry for Iranians for a few hours immediately before matches. Only this week did Washington make concessions, allowing arrival two days before the game, but the new incident at the border showed that political tension between Tehran and the US continues to have a direct impact on the sporting process.
Stakes of the Last Round of Group G
The scandal has erupted against the backdrop of a tense tournament situation. After two rounds, Group G remains maximally unstable. The leader of the quartet is the Egyptian national team with 4 points. Iran and Belgium have 2 points each, trailing the leader. New Zealand, with one point, has not lost hope of advancing to the playoffs.
All questions in the group will be decided in the final round. Iran must play against Egypt, and Belgium against New Zealand. The matches are scheduled for June 27 and will start simultaneously at 6:00 Kyiv time. The outcome of these encounters will determine who from the quartet will continue the fight for the trophy and who will be left out.