Iran's soccer federation says it will complain to FIFA after its request to travel to Los Angeles two days before the World Cup match against Belgium was denied.
Summary
Iran's football federation has announced it will file a formal complaint with FIFA after its request to travel to Los Angeles two days before Sunday's World Cup match against Belgium was rejected, according to ESPN.
The Details
ESPN reports that the Iranian federation wanted to fly to Los Angeles on Friday, two days ahead of their Group B clash with Belgium. However, the request was denied, prompting Tehran to take the matter to world football's governing body. The federation said it believes the decision was politically motivated, though no official reason for the denial has been given by US authorities.
The match against Belgium is scheduled for Sunday at a venue yet to be confirmed. Iran are currently bottom of Group B after a 6-2 defeat to England in their opening game.
What It Means
The complaint adds a diplomatic dimension to Iran's World Cup campaign. If FIFA investigates and finds the travel restrictions unjustified, it could lead to sanctions against the host nation or a ruling that Iran were unfairly disadvantaged. However, with the match just days away, any resolution is unlikely to affect Sunday's fixture. The episode underscores the political tensions that often surround World Cup tournaments. For more World Cup coverage, visit our World Cup news page.
Source: Reported by ESPN. Summary compiled by NinetyMins.
