The Iranian team is already in Los Angeles to face its debut in the 2026 World Cup, although its arrival in the United States was accompanied by a significant security deployment and statements by its captain, Mehdi Taremi, who lamented the logistical problems that have affected several delegations during the World Cup.

The Iranian team arrived this Sunday from Tijuana, the city where they established their base of operations due to the immigration restrictions that conditioned their stay in the United States before the start of the tournament.

The Iranian team lands in the United States to begin its World Cup adventure

The so-called Team Melli arrived at Los Angeles International Airport less than 24 hours before their first match in the tournament against New Zealand.

After landing, players and coaching staff were transferred to their concentration hotel in Manhattan Beach under an extensive surveillance operation, with the presence of escorts and security checks throughout the tour.

The Iranian team was authorized to stay one night in the United States and complete preparation for its World Cup debut in Inglewood.

Taremi regrets visa problems during the World Cup

Hours after the team's arrival, forward and captain Mehdi Taremi spoke about the difficulties that some teams and refereeing bodies have faced in entering the host country.

"Not only Iran has been impacted, but also the refereeing body. Always, in any tournament, there is tension. Of course it is not the same experience and it is not something that happens only to us, there are many countries that have had visa problems," said the attacker.

The footballer considered that situations of this type affect the experience of the participants and assured that he hopes for better conditions in future international competitions.

The Iranian captain believes that the inconveniences affect the spirit of the tournament

Taremi pointed out that the logistical obstacles registered before the start of the championship contrast with the values ​​that a World Cup seeks to promote.

Although he avoided delving into political issues, the attacker made it clear that the team's focus is on the competition and not on issues outside the field of play.

“We are here to play soccer”

The Iranian delegation stayed away from any questions related to diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran and reiterated that its main objective is to represent its fans in the tournament.

“We respect all Iranians, all people inside and outside, we are here to play football, which can unite all groups, we love our people whether they are inside or outside Iran,” Taremi said.

The forward insisted that the team wants to transmit a message of unity during its World Cup participation.

"The civilized country of Iran has lived in union and we want to adorn that type of union. We come to bring hope to the Iranian people," he concluded.

Iran sets its sights on New Zealand

Having overcome the setbacks related to travel and logistics, the Iranian team is now focusing on its debut against New Zealand, a key match to get its participation in the 2026 World Cup off to a good start.

While the team adjusts the final details for its presentation in the tournament, Mehdi Taremi's statements and the conditions of his arrival in the United States have placed Team Melli in the center of media attention before taking the field.