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Iran Soccer Team Expelled Over Visa Issues After Draw

6/17/2026

32 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Iran's team was ordered to leave the U.S. after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand and returned to Tijuana, Mexico.
U.S. officials said the squad had single-entry visas while coach Amir Ghalenoei called the side an oppressed team as staff were denied visas.
State Department officials issued a visa for Mehdi Torabi after his visa expired, as Andrew Giuliani said the team could enter on match day and must depart evening.

History

Historical Context

After the 1979 overthrow of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Ayatollah Khomeini’s new regime sparked a diplomatic break with the United States. The U.S. State Department barred Iranian athletes, citing security after the 52-person, 444-day hostage crisis that began on 4 November 1979. In 2024 the State Department again revoked single-entry visas for Iran’s football squad, prompting coach Amir Ghalenoei to denounce the policy.

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Story summary

Iran's team was ordered to leave the U.S. after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand and returned to Tijuana, Mexico.
U.S. officials said the squad had single-entry visas while coach Amir Ghalenoei called the side an oppressed team as staff were denied visas.
State Department officials issued a visa for Mehdi Torabi after his visa expired, as Andrew Giuliani said the team could enter on match day and must depart evening.

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