Iran Striker Taremi Slams FIFA, Infantino Over World Cup Disorganization

Iran's veteran striker Mehdi Taremi has launched a scathing critique of FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, over the logistical arrangements for the 2026 World Cup. Taremi voiced his strong dissatisfaction following Iran's 1-1 draw against Egypt in their final group stage match.

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This World Cup is a disaster. Now that the group stage is over, our staff still cannot come because they don't have visas.

"This World Cup is a disaster," Taremi stated, highlighting issues such as the delayed arrival of his team's staff due to visa problems. He directly criticized Infantino, who had promised to resolve all issues after attending the first match, saying, "Infantino promised to solve all problems when he came to the first game, but FIFA has actually done nothing."

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Infantino promised to solve all problems when he came to the first game, but FIFA has actually done nothing.

Taremi detailed the immense pressure the team faces, having to "fight with everything" during matches. A significant point of contention is the team's base camp location in Tijuana, Mexico, which necessitates long travel to match venues in the United States. "How can we play with immense stress and pressure for 90 minutes?" Taremi questioned, adding that the constant travel and lack of recovery time is "unfair."

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We have to fight with everything here. How can we play with immense stress and pressure for 90 minutes?

Despite the organizational challenges, Taremi expressed his desire for the team to advance to the knockout stage. Iran, having secured three draws in the group stage, is in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 32.

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But as a player, playing in this tournament, this is not right. Without recovering, we have to go back to Tijuana. It's unfair.