DHS Loosens Travel Rules for Iranian World Cup Team

The Department of Homeland Security is loosening its security restrictions for the Iranian World Cup team, which has been forced to host its home base in Tijuana, Mexico, due to the stringent travel rules implemented by the Trump administration.

Players will now be allowed to enter the United States up to 48 hours before their next game in Seattle — 24 hours more than what they had previously been allowed.

The move comes as President Donald Trump is aiming to advance diplomatic efforts with Iran, though Iranian officials have continued to criticize restrictions on their team and staff during the tournament.

The Iranian team has played two games already in Los Angeles, but has only been allowed to enter the country 24 hours before kickoff. Players and staff returned to Mexico the same day.

However, a DHS spokesperson confirmed to NOTUS on Tuesday that for the team’s game against Egypt on Friday, federal authorities will permit the team to arrive in the U.S. two days before the match.

“The Iran team will still be required to leave the day the match ends,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “The overall security measures and protocol are the same. We remain committed to providing the safest tournament possible for players, staff, and fans alike.”

Iran’s participation in the World Cup has been overshadowed by the country’s war with the United States. The war is currently under a 60-day ceasefire agreement that President Donald Trump signed last week. Iranian officials have criticized the U.S. for denying visas for some of the country’s soccer staff ahead of the World Cup. The team even considered skipping out on the tournament when the war first erupted, The New York Times reported.

The team was originally scheduled to hold its base camp in Arizona, but moved the site to Mexico after it offered itself up as an alternative practice spot.

The Iranian team tied both of its previous matches against Belgium and New Zealand, good enough for second place in Group G.

If the team defeats Egypt on Friday, it would advance to the Round of 16 — and a potential match against the U.S.