- Jun 15
Iran's World Cup opener met with protests and a court-backed flag ban as Los Angeles diaspora stays split
Hundreds protest at SoFi Stadium and a court upholds FIFA's flag ban just as Iran prepares to face New Zealand in the World Cup, while the Los Angeles diaspora remains deeply divided over whether to support the team.
- Jun 15
Iran's World Cup squad arrives in United States to protests as Spain and Belgium enter the tournament
Iran's national team landed in the United States on Sunday ahead of their match against New Zealand, with protests reported. Spain and Belgium are now also taking part in the 2026 tournament.