After two matches in Los Angeles, Iran left a farewell note to the city containing a reference to the horrific bombing of a school during the war between the nation and the United States.
Iran managed to hold out for a 0-0 draw against Belgium on Sunday afternoon, ensuring their survival for another matchday ahead of a contest in Seattle against Egypt.
But prior to departing, the team left a handwritten note in the locker room thanking the city and the fans who cheered them on.
‘From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,’ the note began.
But it also contained the hashtags #168 #minab – a reference to one reported death toll in the attack on a school in late February in the city of Minab.
While other reports put the death toll at 156 victims, what isn’t disputed is the United States’ responsibility in the strike.
The Iran national team bid farewell to Los Angeles with an emotional handwritten note
The note referenced the 168 reported killed in an attack on a school in Minab in February
Iran managed a 0-0 draw against Belgium – keeping their hopes of a knockout stage berth alive
Join the discussion
Should sports teams face political restrictions, or should they be allowed to compete freely worldwide?
The note continued, ‘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 180 minutes.
‘May peace, respect, and friendship prevail among all nations.’
During this World Cup, Iran has not been allowed to stay in the United States for longer than 48 hours due to restrictions put in place by immigration officials. This has forced Iran to re-locate their base camp from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana in Mexico.
Iran’s first match against New Zealand saw them fly to Los Angeles the day before the game. However, they were forced to return to Mexico immediately after the match ended.
Some team officials and support staff were denied access to visas to enter the US. Player Mehdi Torabi saw his single-entry visa expire after the New Zealand match, forcing him to get a new visa at the American consulate in Tijuana.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has referred to his team as the ‘most oppressed team in the whole World Cup’ due to these restrictions.
