Iran captain slams FIFA after World Cup exit, citing 'disaster' due to sanctions

Iran's captain, Mehdi Taremi, has strongly criticized FIFA following the national team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup, calling the campaign a "disaster." The team failed to advance from Group G after a 0-0 draw with Egypt in their final match, finishing third with three draws.

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This World Cup was a disaster.

Taremi specifically accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of breaking a promise to help resolve issues stemming from U.S. government sanctions. "FIFA promised to resolve our team's travel problems caused by U.S. government regulations, but they took no action," Taremi stated at a press conference before the match against Egypt. He added, "FIFA should resolve all the problems here, but unfortunately, they have not resolved them from the beginning."

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FIFA promised to resolve our team's travel problems caused by U.S. government regulations, but they took no action.

The Iranian team faced considerable difficulties throughout the tournament due to U.S. sanctions. Their base camp had to be moved to Tijuana, Mexico, because of worsening political tensions and visa issues. The team also struggled with a shortage of support staff due to visa complications, and their travel was restricted, with players only allowed to enter the U.S. within 24 hours of a match and required to depart immediately afterward. While the U.S. eventually allowed entry two days before the final group stage game following repeated protests, the logistical hurdles persisted.

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FIFA should resolve all the problems here, but unfortunately, they have not resolved them from the beginning.

Despite these challenges, Iran remained undefeated in the group stage. However, their three draws placed them ninth among third-placed teams, narrowly missing out on a spot in the 32-team knockout stage. Taremi lamented the lack of rest and support, stating, "We did not get rest due to travel, and we lacked staff to help us on the ground. No one helped us." He concluded by asserting that FIFA was "never fair" despite the team's persistent complaints from the start of the tournament.

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We did not get rest due to travel, and we lacked staff to help us on the ground. No one helped us.