FIFA officials warned reporters to stick to sport and tactics ahead of a press conference involving Iran’s head coach Amir Ghalenoei and captain Mehdi Taremi. Iran’s involvement in these finals has been in doubt since the United States and Israeli air strikes began in February.
The team moved their training base to Tijuana in Mexico in a bid to avoid visa issues, but 11 officials were still denied US visas to cross the border and attend the team’s matches. They arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday ahead of their opening against New Zealand, and Taremi said the controversy and disruption surrounding their involvement at the World Cup undermines FIFA’s message of peace.
“This kind of tension undermines that joy and it undermines the message of FIFA and our people, which is about football and bringing about peace,” the forward said. “I think this World Cup could have provided a better atmosphere than it has, and I hope in the future it will be better for all fans, whoever they are supporting.
“It’s not just Iran that has been impacted; others have been impacted, including referees [the Somali official Omar Artan was denied entry]. I have felt the tension from the first moment we arrived at this World Cup.
“Of course, we don’t have the same beautiful experience we usually talk about – peace and joy. I know several countries had visa problems and changing of training camps. The tension exists – it did before the World Cup even started. The feeling, the sensation people always have looking forward to a World Cup, I think this time they hadn’t had the same feeling.”
While Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei admitted the build-up to the World Cup had not been ideal in many ways. He said: “Football has its own plannings and strategies and we need to have good planning in order to take part in this.
“Yes, our camp was changed twice, first in the US and then we were transferred to Mexico. Of course that impacts us. I would like to thank the good people of Mexico.
“But we Iranians are accustomed to making opportunities out of hardship, and I don’t think of anything than bringing joy to our people – the rest is up to God. God willing, I know our players are determined to do their utmost.”
Late on Sunday night UK time, US President Donald Trump announced that he has reached a peace deal with Iran. He also said he would lift a blockade on Iranian ports, which was intended to choke off the regime’s oil revenues.
“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all!” Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
“I hereby fully authorise the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”