World Cup 2026: Mehdi Taremi launches explosive FIFA attack after Iran’s ‘disaster’ experience

Iran striker Mehdi Taremi launched a scathing attack on FIFA after describing the organisation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as “a disaster”, with his side’s hopes of reaching the Round of 32 hanging by a thread following Friday night’s 1-1 draw against Egypt.

The stalemate in Seattle left Iran third in Group G after three consecutive draws. Although they currently occupy one of the eight qualifying places reserved for the best third-placed teams, their fate now depends on results elsewhere, with three groups still to conclude their fixtures.

Despite the disappointment of failing to secure a first victory, Taremi shifted the focus away from events on the pitch, accusing FIFA of failing to resolve the logistical problems that have disrupted Iran’s campaign from the opening game.

Taremi hits out over travel and visa problems

The Olympiacos forward expressed his frustration over the team’s unusual travel arrangements, which have forced Iran to base themselves in Tijuana, Mexico, instead of the United States, while also revealing that several members of the backroom staff remain unable to join the squad because of visa issues.

“It’s a disaster World Cup. A disaster,” Taremi said.

“FIFA has to solve every problem here, but unfortunately, they haven’t solved it since the beginning. Mr. Infantino came to our changing room in the first game, and he said, It’s just a beginning, but the group stage finishes tomorrow, and we don’t have our logistics people here. They don’t have a visa.”

He also questioned the fairness of repeatedly travelling between Mexico and the United States for matches, insisting the demanding schedule has denied the players valuable recovery time.

“How is it possible we always have to travel to Tijuana. We love the people of Mexico. We love Tijuana. It’s so good. They are such humble people. We love them.

“But as a professional player, professional competition, it’s not right.

“So without recovery, without nothing. But in our opinion, it’s not fair. Is it fair for FIFA? Okay, good to them. But it’s not fair.”

‘We want to send a message of peace’

While criticising FIFA’s handling of Iran’s tournament, Taremi stressed that neither he nor his teammates had stopped giving everything for their supporters despite the off-field challenges.

Asked whether the national team had been let down, he rejected the idea that the players had fallen short, instead highlighting their desire to inspire people through football.

“We do our best, always do our best. We play for other people. We want them to be happy. We want to bring the joy. We want to send a message of peace to the people. In Iran, outside Iran, for FIFA, for everyone.

“But there is no peace about the others to us.”

Hope remains despite uncertain future

Iran were due to return to Tijuana immediately after the match and now face an anxious wait to discover whether their World Cup journey will continue.

Although visibly disappointed by the result, Taremi insisted belief remains within the squad as they await the remaining group-stage fixtures.

“(I am) sad, but we have hope, right?

“A human being always have a hope, and we had good energy after the game in the dressing room.

“(I am) looking forward to tomorrow’s games. Let’s see.”

The experienced striker also praised his teammates for their performances throughout the tournament, insisting they had every reason to hold their heads high regardless of whether other results end Iran’s World Cup dream.

“I think we are proud of our game, our players, because of how we did the last 3 games. We are proud of it.”