World Cup pundit Gary Lineker has launched a scathing attack on the United States over its treatment of Iran's national team at the 2026 tournament. The former England striker criticised the US for forcing Iran to leave the country immediately after their opening group-stage match against New Zealand.
Iran Ordered to Leave After 2-2 Draw
Amir Ghalenoei's team drew 2-2 with the All Whites in their first Group G fixture. Despite having no matches scheduled in Mexico, the Iranian squad was ordered to return to their training headquarters there instead of remaining in the United States for subsequent games.
The ongoing hostilities between the two nations are well-documented, with conflict intensifying after US-backed Israeli airstrikes that began in February. Iran qualified for the World Cup on merit, but Lineker believes the host nation's handling of the team paints a damning picture.
Lineker: 'Treated Very Unfairly'
“I think they've been treated very unfairly,” Lineker told Sky News. “I've covered a lot of World Cups, every one, either playing or broadcasting, since 1986, and I can't remember going into a tournament where the host nation's at war with one of the competing nations. So that was a first.”
Lineker, who is part of ITV's World Cup coverage, noted recent negotiations between the US and Iran that led to a tentative peace deal. He suggested this could have allowed Iran more flexibility regarding their tournament commitments.
“Hopefully the peace deal holds,” he added. “And perhaps because of the peace deal, it might be a nice gesture if they allow Iran to stay in the country where their football matches are. So I do think they've been unfairly treated. But they've shown great spirit on the pitch. And that's important for them.”
Iran Manager: 'Most Oppressed Team'
After the draw with New Zealand, Iran manager Ghalenoei described his side as “the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup.” The team's training base was switched from Arizona to Mexico on the eve of the tournament, adding to their difficulties.
The Iranian football federation has indicated it will file an official complaint with FIFA over the treatment received. “We are the only team that are participating in the World Cup that we are at the host cities just 24 hours and it is not fair,” said Iranian football secretary-general Hedayat Mombeini. “All these limitations on us, it has negative effects on our physical and mental [preparations for the players].”
Upcoming Fixtures and Group G Standings
Iran are set to face Egypt in Seattle on Friday evening. Victory would secure top spot in Group G, while a draw may be enough if they match or better Belgium's result against New Zealand.
