From defections and protests to moments of national pride, the 2026 World Cup arrives amid decades of tension between identity and the state.

Iran's World Cup history has often reflected the country's political turmoil. But as Team Melli begin their campaign the players face unprecedented pressures

Iran's World Cup 2026 opener coincides with a US-Iran peace deal as Kraken becomes FIFA's first crypto sponsor and OFAC targets Iranian digital assets.