Iran Star Taremi Slams World Cup Logistics: 'Everything is a Disaster'

Mehdi Taremi, a leading figure for the Iranian national football team, has voiced severe dissatisfaction with the logistical and organizational challenges plaguing the squad during the 2026 World Cup. Following a 1-1 draw against New Zealand, the striker stated the team is in a "bad situation" and "tired" due to persistent problems over the past two months that are negatively impacting their performance. Taremi specifically highlighted confusing travel itineraries between the United States and Mexico, accusing the organizing entities of failing to provide clear information. He described a situation where the team was expected to recover one morning, fly to Tijuana, and then return to Los Angeles, only to face last-minute changes and uncertainty about who to contact for resolutions. The player also pointed to a perceived lack of support from team management, noting the absence of the federation president, press officer, and other essential coaching staff. He lamented that an analyst was forced to handle communications duties, summing up the overall situation as a "disaster."

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we are in a bad situation and we are tired, because this has been going on for two months. We have had many problems, and it is so serious that it is affecting our team. We just want peace.

Despite these administrative adversities, Taremi expressed gratitude for the strong support from fans in North America. He described the match atmosphere as "incredible" and akin to playing at home, urging fans to continue their backing. The team also feels comfortable in Tijuana and appreciates the local reception. The team's performance in the tournament is being conducted under these challenging circumstances, with the players striving to overcome these obstacles while representing their country.

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we were supposed to recover tomorrow morning, then fly to Tijuana and then we would return to Los Angeles again. But right now we have to go back and I don't know who to talk to, because it's something between our federation and FIFA, and we have nothing.