By Tendai Chisiri
LOS ANGELES – Iran’s national football team left a handwritten tribute in their World Cup changing room after their match in Los Angeles, dedicating their 90 minutes on the pitch to civilian victims of recent conflict.
The message, written on a whiteboard and shared without player images, referenced the hashtags #168 and #minab – numbers associated with reports of girls and civilians killed in Iran.
The full note read:
“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast. #168 #minab we came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, 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 90 minutes.
May peace, respect, and friendship prevail among all nations.” ❤️
The players signed off with a red heart emoji, framing their performance as one of remembrance and unity rather than politics.
FIFA regulations bar political messaging on kits or during play, but teams are permitted to leave private notes in dressing rooms after matches. Iran’s letter focused on gratitude to hosts and fans, and a call for peace.
Iran has previously used World Cup platforms to highlight domestic issues. At Qatar 2022, several players refrained from singing the national anthem in solidarity with protests at home.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico, is the first with 48 teams and 104 matches running until July 19.
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