Iran 's 2026 World Cup campaign was always likely to have political overtones, given that the United States is one of the host nations.
Their 2-2 draw with New Zealand could have been a straightforward soccer story, but forward Mehdi Taremi did not waste the chance to criticise how the squad and delegation have been treated during the tournament.
A viral video has since supported his words, showing members of Iran's coaching staff watching the match from a hotel in Tijuana after being denied entry to the US.
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
Journalist Sulaiman Ahmed shared the clip on X, showing Iranian coaches following their team's World Cup debut from across the border.
The reaction from fans was one of frustration, with many arguing that the situation had undermined the spirit of the tournament.
"This is madness. This is a crime committed against the football we love," one user wrote.
Another added: "This is f—— crazy. FIFA should never host the World Cup in America again."
And a third said: "Awwww this is so sad and not fair! Sports (including tennis for Russian players) should have nothing to do with anything but sports."
Frustration around Iran continued after the New Zealand match, when FIFA president Gianni Infantino reportedly visited the dressing room.
According to Taremi and Mohammad Mohebbi, Infantino promised to help with problems affecting the team during the tournament, after players raised concerns about travel and visa issues.
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei was also frustrated, while Taremi described the wider situation around Iran as "a disaster".
Infantino had previously said he promised Iran they would reach the World Cup, even if he had to drive them from Tehran himself. That support is now being tested by the realities of a politically charged tournament.
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