Iran captain Taremi: 'Tension, not excitement' for World Cup amid external pressures

Mehdi Taremi, captain of the Iranian men's national football team, described a palpable sense of tension and anxiety surrounding their World Cup campaign, a stark contrast to the usual excitement. Taremi noted that the team has felt this pressure since arriving, attributing it to the complex geopolitical situation and logistical challenges.

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We are not feeling the usual excitement for this World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference alongside head coach Amir Ghalenoei, Taremi highlighted the difficulties faced, including visa problems and the forced relocation of their training camp from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, following the outbreak of conflict. Only four support staff members were granted U.S. entry, leaving the team to navigate the tournament with limited personnel. Their schedule also requires them to travel in and out of the U.S. for each match.

"We are not feeling the usual excitement for this World Cup," Taremi admitted. He acknowledged that while many teams face challenges, Iran's circumstances have diminished the joy typically associated with the tournament. He expressed hope that future World Cups would offer a better environment for all fans and teams, emphasizing football's potential to foster peace.

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We play for all Iranians. People can have their opinions, but we are here to unite people.

Taremi stressed that the team's motivation is to play for all Iranians, regardless of their location or political views. "We play for all Iranians. People can have their opinions, but we are here to unite people," he stated, asserting that the team's focus is on football, not politics. This comes as Iranian diaspora communities in Los Angeles, where Iran will play its first two matches, have planned anti-government protests, potentially displaying pre-revolution flags.

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We are here to play football.