"Quick shower and run." Iran's Physiotherapist Appalled by World Cup Conditions

The ongoing conflict between Iran and the USA cast a long shadow over the Iranian national team's participation in the tournament for months. FIFA intervened, advocating for Iran's inclusion in the US-hosted event. However, the team ultimately relocated its base from Arizona to Mexico, and US authorities have mandated their return to Tijuana on the same day after each match.

Physiotherapist Paulo Alexandre Araujo, who has worked with top clubs, stated that nothing could have prepared him for this situation. He claims player care is significantly hampered – for instance, after their opening group stage match against New Zealand in Los Angeles, medical checks had to be conducted mid-flight on the return journey. Iran considers their 2-2 draw almost miraculous given the circumstances.

"There were many unfair things. When players wait at the airport for two or three hours, and then they arrive and are surrounded by men with assault rifles and such, they are not used to that," Araujo told DPA. Border controls remain an issue despite an agreement to de-escalate tensions between the countries. Both teams could potentially face each other again in the next stage of the tournament in Texas.

Araujo explained that players typically require about 12 minutes in an ice bath for recovery after matches. However, after their opening game, they only managed about one minute because they had to immediately depart for Mexico. "It's like: quickly get them in, quickly get them out, shower, and leave. Nobody cares. This is not how athletes should be treated if we're talking about fair competition," he said.

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stated that all 55 members of the Iranian delegation were properly screened and processed upon arrival at Los Angeles Airport without issues. They added that authorities must balance "stringent security measures with efficient passenger processing."