Protests against the Iranian government were organized around the stadium in Los Angeles before Iran’s World Cup match against New Zealand. On match day, a clear divide emerged among Iranian Americans between politics and football.
Protests Around the Stadium
Iranian fans and demonstrators gathered outside the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. It was reported that between 300 and 500 people came to protest, carrying banners and flags with anti-Iranian government slogans.
Some protesters chose not to attend the match, stating that being in the stands would be seen as supporting the Tehran administration.
Different Attitudes in the Stands
Some Iranian Americans entering the stadium displayed protest symbols. Among these were flags featuring the lion and sun emblem, known as the pre-revolutionary Iranian flag, which differs from the current official flag.
Three fans carrying these symbols said they chose to wear these outfits despite warnings. One fan, Farhad Jafargad, stated that this team does not represent the Iranian people and said he planned to support New Zealand.
On the other hand, some fans entered the stands wrapped in the official Iranian flag and reported being booed by protesters. This group said they wanted to put politics aside and focus on the national team, known as Team Melli.
Mehdi Jafari, a 57-year-old Iranian, said he was there to support his team and believed Iran would win the match. Jafari emphasized that everyone should set politics aside and support the national team.
Flag and Slogan Controversy
The Iranian government warned that matches could be stopped if unofficial flags were raised or slogans chanted. FIFA pointed to rules banning politically charged flags and clothing but did not make a specific statement regarding the lion and sun flag.
On match day, many people carrying or wearing shirts with the lion and sun emblem passed security without issue at the stadium entrance. Some fans were also seen displaying these flags in the stands.
Preparations Amid Tournament Tensions
Iran’s participation in the tournament is unfolding amid controversies shadowed by recent conflict. Sources reported that the conflict began in February with US and Israeli attacks on Iran, followed by nationwide protests within Iran.
The team recently moved its camp from Arizona to Mexico, and the federation announced that some staff were unable to obtain US visas and that tickets allocated to fans were withdrawn. Iran’s first match is scheduled against New Zealand at 18:00 local time.
