Updated

Updated · Reuters · Jun 22

Iran Leaves SoFi Thank-You Note After 0-0 Belgium Draw Keeps World Cup Hopes Alive

Updated

Updated · Reuters · Jun 22

Iran Leaves SoFi Thank-You Note After 0-0 Belgium Draw Keeps World Cup Hopes Alive

Q: Will a thank-you note ease the reality of Iran's five-hour commute for a US match?

No. The note was a gracious gesture, but it does not change the practical burden Iran faces. Iran’s players are still dealing with a roughly five-hour trip from their base in Tijuana to U.S. match venues once security, immigration and airport procedures are included, even for a short flight to Los Angeles. Coach Amir Ghalenoei and players have said the arrangement disrupts training, recovery and sleep, and the federation has formally complained to FIFA that the conditions are not equal to those of other teams. The problem is structural, not symbolic. U.S. entry rules tied to Iran’s participation have limited when the team can enter and leave for matches, and those restrictions have already led to visa problems for staff and extra administrative hurdles for players. Iran was also forced to alter its broader tournament plans, adding to the strain. What the note can do is signal professionalism and appreciation toward the host city and supporters. It may help preserve goodwill with local organizers, fans and FIFA officials, especially as discussions continue over whether travel terms can be eased for Iran’s final group match in Seattle, which involves a longer journey than Los Angeles. But any real relief would have to come from operational changes: earlier arrival windows, overnight stays, smoother visa processing and fewer border delays. Without that, the thank-you note remains meaningful diplomacy, not a solution to the commute.

3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 22

A handwritten note left in Iran's SoFi Stadium locker room thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality after a 0-0 draw with Belgium preserved the team's chance of reaching the knockout stage.
The message said Iran came to Los Angeles "with pride," competed "with honor" and would leave "with dignity," while also thanking supporters and calling for peace, respect and friendship among nations.
Iran have played both Group G matches in Los Angeles but remained based in Tijuana, commuting across the border because U.S. restrictions have limited their stay and barred some staff and officials.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei has repeatedly criticized those travel limits as burdens no other team has faced; U.S. officials say the arrangements are still under review before Iran's final group game against Egypt in Seattle.