Iran’s national football team will start its 2026 World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles after relocating its base to Mexico due to visa restrictions and regional conflict [1, 2]. The team faced delayed US visas, only secured the night before departure, forcing them to enter and leave US soil solely on match days [1, 2]. Iranian officials confirmed the move to Mexico on June 6, reflecting travel constraints linked to the war involving Iran, Israel, and the US that erupted weeks before the tournament [1, 2].
The ongoing conflict and harsh economic challenges marked by hyperinflation and currency depreciation have subdued public enthusiasm for football across Iran [1, 2]. While 10-year-old Helma in Tehran remains a hopeful national team supporter, recording a video backing the squad and proclaiming, "I’m supporting Iran because it’s always the champion! This year, it will be number one out of all the countries!" many others show less excitement [1, 2].
Seventeen-year-old football shop employee Houman noted, "This World Cup is different for Iranians. I don’t see the same enthusiasm as past editions," highlighting a shift in public mood [1, 2]. Photographer Shervin, 42, expressed frustration, saying, "In Iran, no one truly cares about football now, just as no one seems to care about the hardship and difficult living conditions of the Iranian people. It makes me angry." His statement captures a broader sentiment tied to the difficult daily lives many face [1, 2].
The popularity of football jerseys also reflects this shift. Sales data show the most popular jerseys in Tehran are from Portugal, Spain, and Brazil, rather than the Iranian national team [1, 2].
Eighteen-year-old fan Mohammad Pahlevan pointed out the added difficulty for Iranian players, who must compete in a country involved in conflict with Iran, saying, "The situation looks particularly difficult for the national team players, who have to play in a country Iran is in conflict with." Despite these challenges, some still hold hope that Iran can advance from its World Cup group [1].
Iran’s opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles is scheduled in the coming days as the team navigates logistical hurdles amid geopolitical tensions [1, 2].
