Story perspectives

US Sec. Mullin Celebrates Iran’s Tournament Exit, Cites IRGC Ties

6/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said he was “glad they’re gone” after Iran’s tournament exit.
Iran finished third-place in Group G, drawing all three matches and missing the knockout round.
Mullin claimed half of Iran’s delegation had ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which federation called unsupported.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the squad was “oppressed” and left a note praising Iran’s spirit after the June 21 draw vs Belgium.

History

Historical Context

Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Homeland Security secretary, warned that Iranian athletes could serve the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, echoing Cold-War fears first seen when Iran’s national team, led by Heshmat Mohajerani, qualified as Asia’s sole representative for the 1978 World Cup in Argentina. The squad, fresh from three consecutive Asian-Cup titles (1968-1976), finished winless in Group 4, illustrating how sport became a geopolitical flashpoint.

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Story summary

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said he was “glad they’re gone” after Iran’s tournament exit.
Iran finished third-place in Group G, drawing all three matches and missing the knockout round.
Mullin claimed half of Iran’s delegation had ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which federation called unsupported.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the squad was “oppressed” and left a note praising Iran’s spirit after the June 21 draw vs Belgium.

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