Iran team leaves note in World Cup locker room: ‘Thank you, Los Angeles’
FILE-Mehdi Taremi #9 of IR Iran celebrates scoring a goal with teammates before disallowed due to offside during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match between Belgium and IR Iran at Los Angeles Stadium on June 21, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Phot
Iran’s soccer team showed their gratitude for Los Angeles with a note in their locker room lauding the hospitality the team received from the city during the World Cup.
Following Iran’s 0-0 draw against Belgium on Sunday at SoFi Stadium, the team stated in their message that they are leaving the city with "dignity."
Based on the draw, Iran’s hopes remain alive to make the knockout stages of the World Cup.
Iran’s note to Los Angeles
What they're saying:
In Iran’s note, obtained by Reuters, the team wrote "Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity."
The team in their note also expressed gratitude to Iranian supporters who gave their "heart, voice and soul" for them during their two soccer matches and concluded the message with a call for peace, respect, and friendship among all countries.
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Los Angeles hosted both of Iran’s Group G matches so far, with the team returning to Tijuana, Mexico between matches.
Reuters reported that Iran spent the World Cup based in Tijuana while traveling to the U.S. for their soccer messages due to restrictions tied to their stay in the nation. Several of Iran’s tram staff and officials have been banned.
Iran’s soccer coach Amir Ghalenoei has condemned the travel limitations enforced on their team.
Reuters noted that Iran, who drew 2-2 with New Zealand in their opener at SoFi Stadium, will play their final group match against Egypt in Seattle.
The Source: Information for this story was provided by Reuters, which obtained the letter from Iran’s soccer team to Los Angeles. This story was reported from Washington, D.C.