Iran’s elimination in the group stage of the World Cup was accompanied by a message of thanks and relief. Minutes after the classifications were defined, the Iranian Federation published an open letter addressed to journalists who followed the team during the tournament.
In the statement, he thanked the press for coverage and once again mentioned what he classified as “unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment” received by the delegation throughout the competition.
. After drawing their three commitments, they finished their participation undefeated, in third place in Group G, with three points. and .
Iran was left to hope for a victory for Algeria or Austria in Group J to continue as one of the best third-placed teams, but .
In the official note, the Iranians thanked the international press for their work and stated that the news also helped to give visibility to the problems faced by the delegation during the World Cup.
“We are grateful for your professionalism, support and coverage not only of our team’s sporting trajectory, but also of the unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment that our delegation experienced during our stay. Your commitment to reporting the facts with accuracy and integrity meant a lot to us”, wrote the team’s Media Department.
The statement also reserved space to thank the city of Tijuana, which hosted the delegation during the competition, and the Mexican people for their welcome.
“We would also like to express our deep gratitude to the wonderful people of Mexico, especially the beautiful city of Tijuana and its kind and welcoming residents. You welcomed us with generosity and genuine hospitality, making us feel at home. Leaving Tijuana is truly difficult for all of us.”
In the final part of the letter, the team highlighted that they will take with them the experiences they had during the World Cup and expressed their desire to return to the country in the future.
“The memories we created here, the friendships we built and the kindness we received will forever remain in the hearts of every member of the Iran National Football Team. We will always be grateful to the great and generous people of Mexico, as well as the Government of Mexico, for their hospitality and respect.”
The Iranian campaign was marked by difficulties. Due to entry restrictions imposed by the United States on Iranian citizens, . The delegation only received authorization to enter North American territory in .
The same limitations prevented the entry of federation officials and part of the Iranian press accredited to follow the team, a situation that led to recurring criticism of the federation throughout the competition. The team lamented the wear and tear and all the obstacles encountered, while at the same time asking, on several occasions, for ‘fair treatment’.
