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Pezeshkian tells Iran stars to show ‘strength, unity and dignity’ at 2026 World Cup
Speaking during a visit to Iran’s national team training camp in Tehran, Pezeshkian met players, coaches and technical staff as preparations gear up for the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 in the United States and Mexico.
“What the Iranian nation expects from its sons is to stand honorably and fight with all their might on the field of competition,” Pezeshkian told the squad.
The president described the national team as the “representatives of the hope, determination, pride and unity of the Iranian nation” at the World Cup.
“We hope you head into these competitions with strength, unity and an inspiring spirit, return with dignity and honor,” he added.
During the visit, Pezeshkian was presented with Iran’s No. 12 shirt in a symbolic gesture from the squad.
Iran, managed by Amir Ghalenoei, will compete in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.
All three of Iran’s group-stage matches are scheduled to be played in the United States. Their opening fixture comes on June 15 against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, just outside Los Angeles.