'Football should bring peace': Iran captain on war's toll at FIFA World Cup

Iran's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been marked by uncertainty and disruption as the country's ongoing conflict with the United States continues to affect the team's participation in the tournament.

Speaking ahead of Iran's opening Group G match against New Zealand in California, captain Mehdi Taremi said the atmosphere surrounding the tournament has been far from the joyful experience players usually associate with the World Cup.

Taremi explained that tensions have been present since the team first arrived for the tournament. According to the striker, the conflict has affected not only the Iranian squad but also the overall spirit that normally surrounds football's biggest event.

The challenges began after Iran was forced to relocate its training base from the United States to Mexico following the outbreak of war. The team has been training in Tijuana and travelling into the United States only for matches. Players and officials have also faced visa-related complications, while some members of the delegation were reportedly unable to obtain permission to enter the country.

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei said football is meant to bring people together and create joy, but current circumstances have made preparations more difficult. He acknowledged that the situation had affected the team's focus, although he said players were trying to concentrate on tactics and performances on the pitch.

Adding to the challenges, Iran's players must undertake lengthy travel arrangements for matches. The team reportedly spent around five hours travelling from Tijuana to SoFi Stadium in California, despite the short distance by air. After each match, the squad is expected to return immediately to its Mexican training base.

Iran enters the tournament as one of Asia's strongest teams and is ranked among the top 20 nations in the world by FIFA. However, concerns about security, travel restrictions and diplomatic tensions have dominated much of the discussion surrounding the team's participation.

The Los Angeles area, where two of Iran's group-stage matches are scheduled to take place, is home to one of the largest Iranian communities outside Iran. While many supporters are expected to back the national team, anti-government demonstrations are also anticipated around some matches.

Despite the political backdrop, Taremi stressed that the players are focused solely on football and representing all Iranians, regardless of their political views or where they live.

Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand before facing Belgium and Egypt in its remaining group-stage matches. The team hopes its performances on the field can provide a positive distraction from the tensions that have surrounded its journey to the tournament.

(With AP inputs)