The Iran team arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, with golden pins on their chests. Players and members of the coaching staff wore the number 168 accessory when getting off the plane. The gesture marks the memory of the victims of a bombing that hit a girls’ school in Minab, in southern Iran, on February 28. The team is preparing for the World Cup, with games scheduled in the United States.
Captain Ehsan Hajsafi led the group that exited the plane. He was wearing a blue blazer over a white t-shirt, like the others. The delegation traveled directly to Mexico after problems with American visas. The measure allowed the team to set up a training base in Tijuana, close to the border with California. Only players and essential staff were allowed to enter the United States on game days.
Pins 168 remember children killed at school in Minab
The number 168 refers to the people killed in the attack on the Shajarah Tayyebeh school in Minab. The majority were girls between seven and 12 years old, as well as teachers and parents. The incident occurred on the first day of the conflict involving American and Israeli forces against Iran. Iranian sources attribute the bombing to US missiles, although Washington has announced an investigation into the case.
Players did not make direct statements about the pins upon landing. The Iranian embassy in Hungary highlighted the symbol in a publication on the networks. The golden accessory reproduces a hashtag used to remember the victims. The action takes place amid the political tension surrounding Iranian participation in the World Cup.
- The pins were affixed to the jackets of players and officials
- The school that was hit was in Minab, southern Iran.
- Date of attack was February 28
- Victims included mainly children and educators
- Similar gestures occurred in recent team friendlies
Captain Ehsan Hajsafi demands FIFA solution for visas
Ehsan Hajsafi criticized FIFA for the delay in issuing visas for 15 members of the delegation. Among them is the president of the federation, Mehdi Taj. The 36-year-old defender, who previously played for FSV Frankfurt, asked for urgent intervention from the entity. He considered the absent professionals essential for the team’s performance.
FIFA authorized the Mexican base as a provisional solution. The team must travel to the United States only for group stage matches and immediately return to Tijuana afterwards. The clashes are scheduled for Los Angeles and Seattle. The delegation received a police escort upon arriving at the hotel.
Iran’s preparations advance under heightened security
The team trained in Türkiye before traveling to Mexico. The focus now is on adapting to the time zone and local conditions. Tijuana offers infrastructure close to American stadiums without requiring continuous stay in the USA. Mexican authorities provided logistical support upon arrival.
Iran is part of Group G of the World Cup. Opponents include New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. The first game will take place in Los Angeles. The Iranian federation is closely monitoring travel restrictions, which reflect the current geopolitical context.
The use of pins generated international repercussions. Images of the arrival quickly circulated. FIFA has not yet commented on possible rules for symbols during matches. Tournament regulations usually limit political demonstrations on the field, but the episode took place outside competitions.
Context of the base in Tijuana reveals logistical challenges
The change of training plan from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana occurred at the last minute. Visa problems forced the adjustment. Players and essential staff remain free, but the rest of the committee faces barriers. Ehsan Hajsafi reinforced the importance of all members to the campaign.
The proximity to San Diego makes getting around easy. The delegation uses controlled ground transportation. The security scheme is strict due to the voltages. Mexicans welcomed the team with hospitality at the airport.
The 2026 World Cup marks the first time that a host country faces a national team with which it maintains open conflict. Iran and the United States face each other on the field within the group, which increases the symbolism of Iranian participation.
Details of the Minab attack still under investigation
The February 28 bombing hit the school during the day. Reports indicate that missiles hit the structure near a military base. The exact number of 168 victims was confirmed by Iranian authorities. Children made up the majority of the casualties.
American investigation points to possible intelligence error with outdated data. Iran classifies the act as deliberate. Human rights organizations call for accountability. The episode gained global visibility with the team’s gesture.
The Iranian delegation maintains its focus on football despite off-field issues. Training follows a normal schedule in Tijuana. Captain Ehsan Hajsafi leads the group with experience accumulated in previous World Cups.