Iran captain Mehdi Taremi has stressed that his team remains fully focused on football ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, despite the political tensions that have surrounded their preparations for the tournament.
Speaking before Iran’s opening Group G clash against New Zealand on Tuesday, June 16, the Inter Milan forward emphasized that the national team’s objective is to unite and bring happiness to Iranians around the world rather than become involved in political matters.
“We respect all Iranians, whether they are inside the country or outside,” Taremi told reporters.
“We are here to play football, and football can always unite all factions. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and we respect them, but we are here to bring joy to the Iranian people. We do not get involved in politics. We are here to play football.”
Iran’s build-up to the tournament has been heavily influenced by the conflict between Iran and the United States, which resulted in the team relocating its training base to Mexico. Although all of Iran’s group-stage matches are scheduled to be played in the United States, a recent peace agreement has helped ease concerns over further escalation.
Taremi will captain Iran at their fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup as the nation seeks to make history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time. The experienced striker is expected to play a pivotal role in leading the team through what promises to be a challenging group.
Iran have been drawn alongside New Zealand, Egypt and Belgium in Group G. Their campaign begins in the early hours of Tuesday, with Taremi and his teammates determined to let their performances on the pitch speak louder than the events unfolding away from football.
With expectations high back home, Iran will be hoping to make a strong start against New Zealand and take a significant step toward achieving their long-standing dream of progressing beyond the group stage.
