At Iran's first press conference in Los Angeles on Sunday, FIFA officials warned reporters to stick to sports and tactical questions when addressing coach Amir Ghalenoei and striker Mehdi Taremi. Yet it was impossible to avoid the prominent political issues—from visa denials, expected protests, to logistical hurdles that forced Iran to base themselves in Mexico instead of the US.
Coach Ghalenoei expressed frankly that the US hosting the tournament, including refusing to allow the team to stay in the country during the competition, has created major challenges. "This behavior will negatively affect the spirit of football. Whether we win or lose, this is a difficult feeling," he said.
Striker Mehdi Taremi argued that restrictive US travel policies have dimmed the joy World Cup usually brings. He cited the denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, stressing that Iran is not alone in facing problems with the host nation. "We don't have the same beautiful experience as we usually say—peace, joy. This kind of tension ruins that joy, ruins FIFA's message," Taremi said.
Iran was one of the first teams to qualify for the World Cup, topping their Asian qualifying group with just one loss and two draws. They have maintained strong form in recent friendlies. However, their participation had been in doubt earlier this year after the US and Israel attacked Iran, leading to retaliatory strikes by Tehran. Iran's group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt will take place on the US West Coast.
Last March, US President Donald Trump said Iran's team was not welcome in the US and their safety would be threatened. Subsequently, Iran agreed to participate but trained in Mexico and only travels to the US for matches. Coach Ghalenoei confirmed the team will return to Mexico after Monday's game.
The team also faces expected protests by Iranian opposition activists in Los Angeles. Both Ghalenoei and Taremi stressed they come to the World Cup to represent all Iranians, both at home and abroad. "We respect all Iranians, whether inside the country or abroad. We are here to play football, and football can unite all factions," Taremi said.
Coach Ghalenoei expressed hope football would bring joy and cultural unity among nations. Yet he concluded: "Very few football questions were asked," and Taremi joked: "We have great respect for New Zealand and hope the match goes well."
