From defections and protests to moments of national pride, the 2026 World Cup arrives amid decades of tension between identity and the state.

Iran’s World Cup ended on the cruellest note, and when the players returned to Tehran, the first thought on their minds was ...

After two late goals in another game sealed Iran’s fate, Team Melli was left to rue one of the most brutal exits in World Cup ...

Pardoned Iranian nuclear negotiator sues FIFA over team’s World Cup loss against Egypt - Exclusive: Lotfolah Kaveh Afrasiabi, ...

The FOX Sports broadcast of the FIFA World Cup clash between Iran and New Zealand sparked controversy this week.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Several hundred Iranian Americans protested outside Iran's first World Cup match Monday, calling for change in Tehran and waving the pre-revolutionary lion-and-sun flag, while ...

The Iranian men’s soccer team’s quick departure from Los Angeles following their opening World Cup match was always the plan, according to the US government, despite complaints from the team.

The Iranian team’s departure from the tournament ends one of the most politically charged odysseys in recent sports history. Its soccer federation criticized the United States and praised Mexico. By ...

The 2026 World Cup has a four-match slate on Monday, with the nightcap featuring New Zealand versus Iran in Group G play. Iran are slotted 20th in FIFA rankings as they seek to advance past the group ...