Iran has lodged a formal complaint regarding its treatment during the recent World Cup, asserting that a combination of decisions, logistical arrangements, and circumstances created an atmosphere of unfairness. The criticism emerged shortly after the team's narrow elimination from the group stages, which saw them miss out on a spot in the last 32 due to a contentious injury-time offside call in their final match against Egypt.
The Iranian team's participation in the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, had been fraught with tension even before a ball was kicked. Following air strikes on Iran by the US and Israel in February, the team's presence at the finals remained uncertain for months. In May, their training camp was relocated from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, in an attempt to alleviate persistent visa complications. Despite this move, 11 of their federation officials were ultimately denied entry to the US for their three group matches.
Following their exit, the Iranian squad left a handwritten note addressed to the people of Mexico, expressing gratitude for their hospitality while simultaneously raising profound questions about their overall experience. The note praised Mexico's approach to hosting, stating, "True hosting is about respect, humanity, and dignity. We will never forget the kindness of the people of Tijuana. From this day forward, Mexico will always be more than a host nation to us; it will be our second home and our second team."
The message went on to directly challenge the integrity of the competition, asking: "Did every team truly compete under equal conditions and equal professional standards? What we experienced was a series of decisions, logistical arrangements, and circumstances that undermined the sense of fairness—an impression only reinforced by the events of the final matchday of our group." The team also highlighted a stipulation from authorities that they leave immediately after each match, which they considered an additional burden.
Adding to the controversy, Markwayne Mullin, the US Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security, openly expressed his satisfaction at Iran's departure. During a security briefing, Mullin stated, "I was so happy when we were able to pull their visas and said they could leave the US soil, and I might’ve sung a song or two or maybe even danced a happy dance." He also claimed that "almost half" of Iran’s non-playing delegation had direct ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The Iranian note concluded with a defiant message, asserting that global football fans witnessed not only the hardships faced by Iranian football but also the resilience of a nation that refused to compromise its dignity. Fifa has been contacted for comment regarding these serious allegations.