US Homeland Security Secretary Celebrates Iran's World Cup Exit

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin publicly expressed relief after Iran’s national soccer team failed to advance beyond the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Iran drew all three matches, finished as the ninth-best third-place team, and missed the knockout round on goal difference.

The Jerusalem Post

Iran’s participation was uncertain after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in February 2026, prompting the team to move its training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, in May. All three group games were played in the United States—two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

The Guardian

Iran recorded three draws (including a 1-1 draw with Egypt) and missed the round of 32 by goal difference. Mullin asserted that “almost half” of Iran’s non-playing delegation had direct ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The team was required to depart the United States immediately after each match under an agreement with FIFA.

ESPN

Mullin said the United States was pleased that Iran’s World Cup participation had ended and expressed personal satisfaction at revoking the team’s visas. He said the post-match departure rule was a pre-arranged agreement with FIFA. Iran’s coach Amir Ghalenoei said his squad faced oppression and unfair treatment. The Iranian Football Federation, contacted for comment, called Mullin’s claim that nearly half of the delegation had IRGC ties completely unsupported.

The Jerusalem Post

Iranian officials argued U.S. restrictions limited training time and forced rapid exit after each game, describing the treatment as “very unfair.” The federation’s denial of the IRGC allegation underscores a broader dispute over the delegation’s characterization.

US issues first General License for Iran under Memorandum of Understanding, but impact remains unce : Clyde & Co

• “I'm just glad they're done, and they're not coming back.” — Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security

ESPN

• “soil, and I might've sung a song or two or maybe even danced a happy dance.” — Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security

ESPN

The incident shows how geopolitical conflict can affect sport, shaping visa policy, logistics, and public discourse. Mullin’s remarks reflect U.S. security concerns, while Iran’s grievances raise questions about equitable treatment of visiting teams.

The Jerusalem Post

Mullin’s claim that “almost half” of Iran’s delegation had IRGC ties conflicts with the federation’s statement that the allegation is “completely unsupported by any evidence.” The marginal off-side call that denied Iran a win over Egypt was noted but not independently verified.

The Jerusalem Post

The Iranian Football Federation and FIFA have been approached for comment; further statements may clarify the dispute over delegation composition and match-day protocols.

ESPN