Tehran: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has criticized the United States' role as a host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that the tournament should not become a pretext for discrimination or mistreatment of athletes and representatives of participating nations. Baghaei expressed concerns over reports of inappropriate treatment of players and coaching staff from some national football teams at US entry points.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baghaei, writing in Persian on X on Wednesday, emphasized that football serves as a platform for fair competition and bringing nations closer together, rather than reopening old grudges and settling political scores. He asserted that the World Cup is intended to be a global celebration of football, not an opportunity to humiliate and discriminate against other nations.

Baghaei highlighted that the reported improper treatment of players, referees, and football guests arriving in the United States contrasts with the warm and respectful reception provided by Mexico to visiting teams. He argued that successful hosting should be measured not by grand stadiums or political publicity, but by the way visitors are treated.

He further stated that good hosting is not defined by magnificent venues or political showmanship but is measured by humane behavior and the ability to make guests feel welcome. Baghaei underscored that a host nation's reputation is shaped not only by its sporting infrastructure but also by the quality of its treatment of those who travel there for football.