‘Civilized’ Iran Leaves Locker Room Note After World Cup Game in USA
The note commemorated the 168 schoolgirls killed in the US Missile strike in Iran’s Minab, which triggered the three-month long US-Iran war
Inglewood: The Iranian football team, competing in the world cup while the nation is at war with the co-host nation the USA, have left a heartfelt message on a post-it note in their locker room after their game against Belgium (0-0) at the Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday.
The note commemorated the 168 schoolgirls killed in the US Missile strikes in Iran’s Minab on February 28, 2026, which triggered the three-month-long US-Iran war.
The note was posted in the locker room as US-Iran peace deal negotiations are underway in Switzerland, with high ranking officials of both countries directly taking part.
The note also subtly took a dig at US President Donald Trump' s earlier mid-war statement, of threatening to unleash mass destruction upon Iran, in which he had said “a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again.”
The handwritten note read “From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” underlining that the civilizational state remains, even after heavily bombed by the world cup host nation US.
Iran’s locker room message on Sunday thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality during the World Cup and said they are leaving with dignity after a 0-0 draw with Belgium, keeping alive their hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
Los Angeles hosted both of Iran's Group G matches so far, with the team returning to their base in Tijuana, Mexico between games.
Iran have spent the tournament based in Tijuana, commuting to the U.S. for their matches because of restrictions surrounding their stay in the country, while a number of Iran's team staff and officials have been banned.
U.S. officials have said the squad's travel arrangements would continue to be assessed, while discussions over easing some restrictions have continued.
"Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality.
"We came to Los Angeles with pride, compete with honor, and leave with dignity."
The note also thanked Iranian supporters who gave their "heart, voice and soul" for the team during the two matches and ended with a call for peace, respect and friendship among all nations.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has repeatedly criticised the travel restrictions imposed on the side, saying the team has faced challenges no other side have had to endure.
Iran, who drew 2-2 with New Zealand in their opener at SoFi Stadium, will play their final group match against Egypt in Seattle on 27th June.
