Football, as the “universal language” of the world, has always been intended to symbolize solidarity and the human spirit. Yet in recent decades, the sport has not only drifted away from its original mission but has also remained silent in the face of some of humanity’s greatest tragedies. A clear example of this double standard is the approach of FIFA and Gianni Infantino toward the Islamic Republic and the football team that, for many Iranians today, is no longer considered the “national team,” but rather the “Mullahs’ Team.”

A Shameful Silence in the Face of Bloodshed

While the people of Iran continue to grapple with the deep wounds left by recent years’ tragedies—including the painful events of recent months, during which many of their compatriots lost their lives—the deafening silence of this team’s players has only intensified the public’s suffering. At a time when many of those killed were themselves football fans and promising young people with bright futures, these players not only failed to become a voice for the people but, through a cycle of personal interests, became part of the regime’s propaganda machinery.

FIFA’s Double Standard: From Russia to Tehran

The fundamental question is this: Why is it that FIFA, which has acted swiftly to suspend and exclude teams in response to certain international crises, has not only refrained from doing so regarding the Islamic Republic but has actively lobbied to ensure this team’s continued participation on the world stage?

Gianni Infantino’s presence in the stadium as a spectator of what many viewed as a highly politicized match effectively served as an endorsement of FIFA’s disregard for the human rights demands of the Iranian people.

Rather than standing alongside the people, Infantino’s appearance contributed to the normalization of circumstances that have brought nothing but hardship and suffering to Iranians.

The Victory of the Lion and Sun; A Humiliating Defeat for Censorship

The effort to erase Iran’s national and historical symbols was another aspect of the broader attempt to engineer this atmosphere. The ban on the Lion and Sun flag—a historic and proud symbol of Iran’s freedom-seeking heritage—demonstrated the extent to which the regime and its supporters fear the authentic symbols of the Iranian people.

Yet the Iranian people in Los Angeles once again proved that the strength of their determination surpasses all prohibitions and restrictions. Raising the Lion and Sun flag in the heart of the stadium was not merely a sporting gesture—it was a powerful political statement.

The booing of the regime’s official anthem and the echoes of slogans supporting Iran and Reza Shah II sent a clear message to Infantino and the regime’s propaganda apparatus: you cannot silence the voice of the people inside stadiums.

The Final Score: 3–0 for Freedom

Although the match itself ended in a draw, the real result was determined in the hearts of millions of Iranians. Infantino’s silence in the VIP section and his apparent discomfort as he witnessed the passion and anger of the crowd suggested that those seeking legitimacy had suffered a significant defeat.

Through this powerful display of unity, the Iranian people showed FIFA that the football of the “Mullahs’ Team” has become nothing more than a symbol of public resentment. This match ended 3–0 in favor of a people who, despite every pressure and obstacle, have never stopped raising their voices for freedom.

Indeed, when the voice of a nation echoes through the stadiums, no FIFA and no regime can silence it.

Read this article on the Shah Negar website

Shah Negar — Standing alongside Reza Shah II for a prosperous, free, and proud Iran

By Kiarash Manavi