Infantino visits Iran locker room after draw, drawing political backlash

FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited Iran’s locker room after its 2-2 draw with New Zealand in the opening match of the World Cup, played in Los Angeles. According to the report, he told players he would help them with problems they have faced during the tournament, especially issues outside the pitch.

Iranian players and staff had already raised concerns about travel arrangements and visa problems that affected some members of the delegation. The team was quoted as saying, “We are the most oppressed team in the World Cup.” Infantino’s visit came immediately after those complaints gained attention.

In his remarks to the squad, Infantino said the game had been difficult and that, with a little luck, Iran could have won. He praised the players for showing their families, friends and the world that they deserved to be at the World Cup, and repeated that they are capable of performing at the highest level. He also said, “I know what you are going through, I understand. But you are stronger than everything.”

The gesture was not universally welcomed. Some social media users accused Infantino of making a “cynical political move,” while others argued he was correcting earlier criticism that he was too close to U.S. President Donald Trump. Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei also criticized what he described as unfair treatment of Iran’s team by the host nation.