As the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its 12th week, a sports facility in Tucson, Arizona, is preparing to host the Iranian national football team ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The team, known as Team Melli, will set up base camp in this desert oasis before the tournament kicks off in the US, Mexico, and Canada next month.
"We're just excited to host them here, and we're going to give them a positive experience," said Sarah Hanna, director of the Kino Sports Complex, where the team will train. Grass is being watered and cut to FIFA regulation height to ensure players face no surprises when they take the field in Los Angeles and Seattle for their group-stage matches.
The preparations unfold against the backdrop of war that began on February 28 when the US and Israel attacked Iran. Tehran responded with strikes on Israel, US military bases in the Middle East, and energy facilities. Despite a month-long ceasefire, hostilities remain unresolved, with Iran effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz and the US imposing a naval blockade on Iranian ports.
FIFA has insisted the team will participate as planned, so Tucson has pressed ahead. "As far as we're concerned, it's 100 percent on, and it's never been off," Hanna said. However, uncertainty lingers. On Friday, the head of Iran's football federation announced participation but laid out demands regarding visas and staff treatment.
In March, President Trump cast doubt on the players' safety, writing that their participation might not be appropriate "for their own life and safety." Locals dismissed the implied threat. "Our president is known to be a bit bombastic in his use of social media," said Jon Pearlman, president of FC Tucson. "I don't think President Trump or any part of our government will make it their business to make them feel unwelcome or unsafe."
At the Kino Sports Complex, Iranian players will have access to weight training, ice baths, and massage tables. "We welcome them with open arms. We believe the game brings nations together, not drives them apart," Pearlman added.
Iran's squad and support staff are expected to arrive two weeks before their opening match against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles. They will then face Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 25 in Seattle.
Source: www.aljazeera.com