Iran’s FIFA World Cup Excitement Dimmed by Political Tensions and Unrest

In a neighborhood of Tehran with several shops that sell football jerseys and sporting equipment, 10-year-old Helma is already feeling World Cup fever.

“I’m supporting Iran because they’re always champions!” She is wearing a bracelet with the colors of the Iranian flag (green, white, and red). “They’re going to be number one above all countries this year!”

Helma’s mom describes holding a shopping bag with a jersey for the national team so that Helma can appear in a video supporting Iran. “We’re buying the Team Melli outfits to shoot the video.”

However, due to the long-standing conflict with Israel and the unwillingness of the U.S. (the other co-host of the tournament), there are not many people in Iran who are as excited for the World Cup as the young 10-year-old girl.

“This World Cup is different for Iranians,” he said. “I don’t see the same enthusiasm as past editions.”

Team Melli’s aspirations on the field have been overshadowed by what has been an especially trying year for Iranians. It began with anti-government protests — described as foreign-backed riots by the government — that rights groups say were met with a deadly crackdown.