Political Tension Has Undermined World Cup Joy, Says Iran Striker
Iran arrive at the World Cup carrying heavy political baggage, with visa problems, a relocated base camp and protests expected in Los Angeles. "This kind of tension undermines the joy," striker Mehdi Taremi told the BBC.
F ew teams have arrived at a World Cup carrying as much political baggage as Iran, the BBC reports. The squad faced visa problems, had to relocate their base camp, and will open against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, home to one of the world’s largest Iranian diasporas. An agreement to halt hostilities between the United States and Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz was announced on Sunday, easing fears of escalation, though tensions remain high.
"It undermines the joy"
"This kind of tension undermines the joy of the World Cup," striker Mehdi Taremi said. "I felt the tension from the first moment we arrived. The tension started even before we got here." After months of uncertainty, Iran moved their base camp from Tucson, Arizona, to the Mexican border city of Tijuana, citing concerns over visas, security and the political climate.
Preparation disrupted
Manager Amir Ghalenoei told the BBC the disruption had affected preparations. "Without any doubt, this kind of behaviour has impacted the spirit of football," he said. "Football is supposed to bring nations and cultures together. These conditions have affected our focus, but I have tried to make sure the players concentrate on strategy and performance." He said the team arrived late with little time to adjust.
Protests outside the stadium
Los Angeles is often nicknamed "Tehrangeles", and many Iranian-Americans plan to head to SoFi Stadium, some to protest. FIFA has banned the pre-revolutionary Lion and Sun flag, a symbol for many Iranians abroad, angering parts of the diaspora. "This is the largest Iranian community outside Iran. We are opposing FIFA’s ban and standing in solidarity with the people of Iran," said activist Arezo Rashidian, who is helping organise demonstrations. Many still plan to attend: "We will carry our colours. We will cheer for Iran, the country."
Players say focus is football
"As players of the national team, we play for every single Iranian, whether in the diaspora or in Iran," Taremi said. "We are here to unite people and bring joy. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. We do not get involved in politics." Investigative football journalist Samindra Kunti told the BBC the squad were under enormous pressure: "It is impossible to avoid the politics. Everything becomes a reminder of their situation."
Reporting: based on reporting by BBC Sport (Shaimaa Khalil), June 15, 2026.