Iran Leave Message of Peace After World Cup Draw With Belgium
Iran’s national team left a touching message calling for peace, respect and friendship after their World Cup group match against Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium.
The handwritten note was found in the team’s dressing room after a goalless draw in their second Group G game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In the message released by the Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI), the players thanked the people of Los Angeles for their hospitality and expressed pride in representing their country during a difficult period.
“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” the note read.
“We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honour, and leave with dignity.”
The team also thanked Iranian supporters for their backing during the tournament and ended the message with a call for unity among nations.
“May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations,” the statement added.
The note also paid tribute to the victims of an attack on a girls’ school in Minab, where at least 168 people reportedly lost their lives on the opening day of the conflict involving Iran.
Iran’s participation at the World Cup has been affected by ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, one of the tournament’s co-hosts alongside Canada and Mexico.
Several members of Iran’s backroom staff were denied entry visas into the United States, while the Iranian Football Federation also raised concerns after its ticket allocation was withdrawn shortly before the competition began.
As a result, Iran moved their tournament base from Arizona in the United States to Tijuana in Mexico. The team has also faced strict travel rules, allowing them to enter the United States only a day before matches and leave immediately after games.
Iran began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand before holding Belgium to another draw. They will complete their group-stage matches against Egypt in Seattle on June 27.
Despite the challenges, Iran remain hopeful of progressing to the knockout stage as they prepare for their final Group G encounter.
