World3 min(s) read
Published 13:14 23 Jun 2026 GMT
Iran's World Cup team leave 74-word handwritten note in locker room after immediate orders to leave US
Despite being required to leave the United States after each World Cup match and return to their base in Mexico, Iran’s national team thanked one of the tournament’s host cities in a heartwarming handwritten letter.
The fact that Iran’s soccer team have been forced to stay and train in Mexico throughout the competition, and are only permitted to enter the U.S. to play games before being expected to leave immediately, has been well-reported on during this World Cup.
Despite the restrictions they have faced, players and staff showed their appreciation in a 74-word thank-you letter to the city of Los Angeles, which has hosted both of the team’s games.
After Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Belgium, which means they are above the European team in the table and on track to make it through the group stages, the Persian team left a thank-you note to LA in their SoFi Stadium locker room.
What did the letter say?
The gracious letter said: “From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today.
“The spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast.
“We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honour and leave with dignity.
“Thank you, Los Angeles for your hospitality.
“And thank you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran throughout these 180 minutes.
“May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations.”
The letter has come as a shock to many soccer fans, as the team have been treated notoriously worse than all other competing countries, with some Iranian officials and media personnel reportedly unable to enter the U.S.
Iran's Head Coach revealed the sad truth behind how his team has been treated
After Iran’s first match last week against New Zealand, head coach Amir Ghalenoei revealed that his side had been instructed to leave immediately after the final whistle was blown.
Shortly after the game on Tuesday, June 16, Ghalenoei said: “We’ve been asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana, and we are really troubled by that. They are forcing us to go back early. They are making the situation more and more difficult, more hurdles, but we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best."
Ghalenoei added, “I think our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup."