Iran Coach Emphasizes Focus on Football Amid Challenges at World Cup 2026

Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach of Iran’s national football team, has stated that his squad is fully focused on the sporting aspect of their participation in the 2026 World Cup, despite facing significant logistical challenges since their arrival in North America.

The Iranian team is preparing to play their opening match against New Zealand under complicated conditions that have required multiple changes to their training camp location and special travel arrangements, which have impacted their preparation schedule.

Representing the Iranian People, Not a Political Entity

During a press conference held in Los Angeles less than 24 hours before facing New Zealand, Ghalenoei remarked, “We are here to play football and represent the Iranian people and Iranian communities worldwide; we are not a political entity, and we believe that football should remain separate from politics.”.

He added, “We respect everyone, and our goal is to bring joy to the Iranian people and deliver our best performance in the tournament.”.

Travel Difficulties Impact Preparations

The Iranian coach revealed the challenges faced by the team in the hours leading up to the match. He noted that the journey from Tijuana, Mexico, to Los Angeles took longer than expected, causing delays in the team’s arrival at their accommodation.

He stated, “The delay was not our fault; it was a long and exhausting trip. We hoped to conduct an early training session, but time constraints prevented that. Despite these circumstances, I trust in the players’ determination to deliver their best performance possible.”.

Multiple Changes to Training Camp

Ghalenoei highlighted that Iran’s national team had to adjust its preparatory plans several times before the tournament began. He confirmed that these changes have affected both technical and organizational aspects.

He explained, “Our training camp was changed twice before the tournament, which has certainly impacted us. I thank the Mexican people for their support; however, these circumstances have reflected on our preparations and tactical plans.”.

Additionally, he confirmed that after completing their matches in the United States, Iran’s national team would need to return to Mexico as per their travel arrangements.

Mehdi Taremi: Hoping for a Message of Hope from the Tournament

Mehdi Taremi, forward and captain of Iran’s national team, expressed that the squad aims to focus on football despite pressures surrounding them.

Taremi said, “We were not the only team facing difficulties related to visas or accommodation changes; however, we felt a significant amount of pressure since our arrival.”.

He added, “We hope this tournament carries a message of hope for the future and serves as a means of bringing people together and enhancing understanding between nations.”.

Focusing on New Zealand Match

At the conclusion of the conference, officials from Iran’s national team emphasized the importance of focusing on technical aspects and preparing for their upcoming match against New Zealand. They reiterated their full respect for their opponent and desire for a positive start in the tournament.

Taremi stated, “We are facing a strong opponent whom we respect greatly. We hope to deliver a good match and achieve a positive result as we begin our journey in this World Cup.”.