STONY BROOK, N.Y. — As Iran's national soccer team gears up for its participation in the World Cup, Iranian fans abroad are split on their support.
Arad Ershad, a graduate student from New York, recalls the joy he once felt at the prospect of seeing Team Melli play live but finds himself disillusioned by the players’ silence amid ongoing protests against the regime. It feels so bad that I do not want them to succeed. They were like my icons, he lamented.
The situation is mirrored in the Iranian diaspora, particularly among those residing in Los Angeles, home to the largest Iranian community outside Iran. Some fans intend to attend the matches to show their love for the country but plan to bear signs of protest as a form of dissent. Others, however, cannot bring themselves to cheer for a team they see as complicit in the government’s repression.
This conflict heightens as the players’ silence seems to resonate with the Iranian government's oppressive actions against dissenters, particularly following a series of violent crackdowns on protesters this past January. Many expatriates are voicing their frustrations, feeling that cheering for the team could symbolize approval of the regime.
Iran’s eligibility to participate is also at risk due to the country’s ongoing conflicts. Officials have hinted at the potential of the team bowing out of the tournament amid intensified geopolitical tensions and discouragement from officials like U.S. President Donald Trump.
Despite this, several fans remain hopeful for a focus on sport rather than politics. “Sports should never become a political issue,” said Nader Adeli, worried that the political climate may prevent the players from focusing fully on the games.
There are also concerns over the repercussions players face for speaking out. Past participants have faced severe penalties for their involvement in protests against the regime.
As the tournament draws closer, individuals like Ershad contemplate their loyalty, wrestling with the choice of whether to support their team or step away from a regime they oppose. He stated, If the government is overthrown before the tournament starts, I’ll support the Iranian team; if not, then it’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal for me.
The sentiments captured resonate deeply across the Iranian diaspora, with many awaiting the unfolding events both on the soccer field and in their homeland.
