As a political storm continues to surround their stay in the United States, the Iranians found a way to send a message to the hosts of the World Cup — without saying a single word.
After their matches in Los Angeles, a message appeared in the locker room that quickly spread across social media and sparked widespread reactions. At a time when the World Cup is being played in a country engaged in open conflict with Iran, every detail carries added significance.
Iran’s national football team is competing at the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, but it has been clear from the outset that it is not being treated like other national teams. Due to the current political tensions in the Middle East, the Iranian squad has been barred from extended stays on U.S. soil and is therefore based in Tijuana, Mexico.
Esto es de una DIGNIDAD IMPRESIONANTE.
— Periodistán (@periodistan_) June 22, 2026
El plantel de Irán ya se fue de Los Angeles pero dejó una carta:
"Desde la Antigua Persia al Irán de hoy (…) vinimos a Los Angeles con orgullo, competimos con honor y nos vamos con dignidad".
La lección que le están dando a EE.UU… pic.twitter.com/9d82ibnmcs
In practical terms, this means that after every match they must leave the United States almost immediately, without sufficient time for recovery and rest. Despite these circumstances, Iran has collected two points so far and remains in contention for a place in the knockout stage.
However, what attracted the most attention happened off the field.
Following matches against Egypt and Belgium in Los Angeles, the Iranian players left a message of gratitude to the hosts in the stadium locker room, along with a powerful statement about identity, dignity, and unity.
“From ancient Persia thousands of years ago to modern-day Iran, the spirit of Iran has remained alive and steadfast. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed honorably, and leave with dignity. Thank you, Los Angeles, for your hospitality. And thank you to every Iranian who, during these 180 minutes of football, gave their heart, voice, and soul for Iran. May peace, respect, and friendship prevail among all nations.”
A photograph of the message soon went viral, with many highlighting the contrast between the restrictions imposed on the Iranian team and the manner in which the squad has conducted itself throughout the tournament.
Iran now faces a decisive clash against New Zealand in its battle for a place in the Round of 16. Before that, however, the team must endure yet another exhausting journey — from Tijuana to Seattle — where it will attempt to write a new chapter in its World Cup story.
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Source: Nova.rs; Foto: Printscreen X