Iran’s 2026 World Cup campaign concluded with a sense of deep frustration, as the national team and its football federation voiced strong criticism over what they described as “unfair and unsportsmanlike” treatment, alongside persistent logistical hurdles.
Their exit from the tournament came after a 1-1 draw with Egypt on Saturday, a result that saw a late Iranian goal controversially disallowed following a lengthy VAR review. The outcome meant Iran finished ninth in the third-place table, missing out on the knockout stages on goal difference.
Logistical challenges mar campaign
The team’s tournament journey was reportedly overshadowed by ongoing tensions stemming from Iran’s conflict with the United States, which directly impacted their operational setup. Originally slated to base themselves in Arizona, the squad was ultimately forced to relocate to Tijuana, Mexico.
Strict restrictions on the duration of their stay in the US prompted the Iran Football Federation to lodge a formal complaint with FIFA. These issues extended to critical personnel, with captain Mehdi Taremi revealing that logistical staff had been unable to secure visas throughout the tournament.
Read also: Donald Trump's World Cup absence explained by 'czar'
Captain Taremi slams “disaster” World Cup
Following the decisive match against Egypt, Taremi did not mince words, calling the entire World Cup experience a “disaster.” He directed scathing criticism towards FIFA and the Trump Administration, expressing bewilderment at the lack of resolution for their problems.
“It’s a disaster World Cup; a disaster. I mean, FIFA, they have to solve every problem here but unfortunately they could not solve it since the beginning,” Taremi told RTE. He recalled FIFA President Infantino visiting their changing room after their first game against New Zealand, only to say, “It’s just the beginning.”
Taremi elaborated on the daily challenges: “We don’t have our logistic people here – they don’t have a visa. How is it possible we always have to travel from Tijuana? We love the people in Tijuana. We love Mexico. They are humble people and we love them but as a professional player in a professional competition, it’s not right. It’s not fair.”
The Iranian federation echoed these sentiments in a farewell statement, thanking media for “covering not only our team’s sporting journey, but also the unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment our delegation experienced during our stay.” Despite the grievances, the federation extended “deepest gratitude” to the people and government of Mexico, particularly Tijuana, for their “generosity and genuine hospitality.”
Read also: Max Verstappen jokes about George Russell's controversial yellow flag pole position
Read also: Why cramps could shape the World Cup knockout stage
