2026 World Cup: Taremi held at airport, Iran accuses US authorities of harassment

Tensions are rising between Iran and the United States on the sidelines of the 2026 World Cup. The Iranian Football Federation announced on Wednesday that its captain, Mehdi Taremi, and assistant coach Saeed Alhoei were detained by US authorities at the airport. As a result, the team is delayed in its journey to Seattle, where they are set to face Egypt.

Iran has raised its voice over another episode during its stay in the United States. In a statement entitled “Harassment of Taremi and Alhoei at the airport; Iranian national team delayed,” the governing body of Iranian football denounced what it considers yet another obstacle posed by the host country. According to the federation, the entire delegation was ready to board when the two team members were subjected to additional checks.

“As in previous trips, interventions by the host country’s authorities involving Saeed Alhoei and Mehdi Taremi caused the national team’s delay,” said the Federation.

The rest of the squad is waiting for their two representatives before heading to Seattle.

Washington denies any delay

The Iranian version is, however, disputed by US authorities. The special White House task force coordinating the World Cup assured that the Iranian squad’s flight left the airport on time, even a few minutes ahead of schedule.

This denial has fueled a fresh controversy over the reception given to the Iranian delegation since the start of the tournament. Iranian officials have repeatedly criticized the enhanced security checks imposed on their players and staff during their time on US soil.

An already tense atmosphere

This incident comes amid a particularly sensitive diplomatic context between Tehran and Washington. Since the start of the World Cup, several Iranian officials have voiced their dissatisfaction with the administrative and security constraints imposed on their team.

Just hours before a crucial match against Egypt, this new controversy threatens to pile even more pressure on the Iranian players as the tournament enters its decisive stage.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.