Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian criticised the United States over FIFA World Cup 2026 controversies, alleging rule manipulation and unfair treatment. His remarks followed disputes over refereeing decisions in the Egypt-Argentina match and FIFA's handling of Folarin Balogun's suspension. Iran had also raised concerns over tournament logistics and travel arrangements.

Tehran [Iran], July 8: Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian has launched a scathing attack on the United States and the handling of the FIFA World Cup 2026, accusing the host nation of "bending rules", "bullying rivals" and "cheating" amid a series of controversies that have overshadowed the tournament's knockout stage.

Pezeshkian targets US

In a post on X, Pezeshkian linked the latest disputes surrounding the World Cup to what he described as Washington's broader foreign policy approach.

"The U.S. government's conduct as World Cup host follows its familiar foreign policy: bending rules, bullying rivals, creating obstacles, and cheating. This is their MAGA playbook. Iran rejects such games. We stand firmly for our rights," the Iranian President wrote.