The United States has relaxed travel restrictions on Iran’s national team during the FIFA World Cup, allowing the squad to arrive in Seattle two days before their final group-stage match against Egypt.

Previously, Iranian officials had criticized the travel arrangements, saying the team was only permitted to enter host cities a day before matches and was required to depart shortly after games concluded.

According to a spokesperson for the US Department of Homeland Security, Iran has been granted permission to travel to Seattle on Wednesday ahead of Friday’s match, providing the team with an additional day to prepare. However, the squad must still leave on the same day the match is played.

The department emphasized that all other security protocols remain unchanged, adding that authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of players, staff, and supporters throughout the tournament.

An Iranian team representative confirmed that the squad will depart from Tijuana, Mexico, where they have been based during the competition, on Wednesday.

Iran, known as Team Melli, opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand before earning a goalless draw against a 10-man Belgium side.

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei welcomed his team’s performances, noting that they had achieved positive results despite difficult circumstances. He has previously described Iran as the “most oppressed team” participating in the tournament.

While arriving one day before a match is common practice under FIFA regulations, the rules permit teams to arrive two days early in exceptional situations.