US Homeland Security Chief Says He ‘Danced a Happy Dance’ After Iran’s World Cup Exit

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced plenty of drama, but one of the biggest stories has come away from the pitch. US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has sparked debate after saying he “danced a happy dance” when Iran were eliminated from the tournament.

Speaking to reporters after Iran’s exit, Mullin said he was relieved the team had left the United States. He added that no other nation required as much attention from the Department of Homeland Security during the competition.

Iran’s World Cup Ends in Heartbreak

Iran came within moments of keeping their World Cup dream alive. The team thought it had scored a stoppage-time winner against Egypt, but the goal was ruled out for a marginal offside after a VAR review.

The match ended 1-1, leaving Iran needing other results to go their way. However, a thrilling 3-3 draw between Algeria and Austria confirmed Iran’s elimination on goal difference, ending their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Mullin Explains His Reaction

After Iran’s exit was confirmed, Mullin did not hide his feelings.

“I’m just glad they’re done, and they’re not coming back,” he said. He added that he was pleased Iran’s visas had expired and that the team had left US soil. Mullin also joked that he “might’ve sung a song or two” and “danced a happy dance” after their departure.

He also claimed that Iran was the team his department spent the most time dealing with throughout the World Cup.

Iran Criticizes Travel Restrictions

Iran’s campaign was affected by strict travel arrangements linked to the political tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel.

Before the tournament began, the team’s training base was moved from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. For their opening two matches, players were only allowed to enter the United States the day before each game and had to return to Mexico immediately after the final whistle.

The restrictions were eased slightly for Iran’s final group match in Seattle, allowing the squad to arrive two days earlier. Even so, the team still had to return to Tijuana immediately after the match.

Coach and Captain Speak Out

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei said Iran had been treated unfairly throughout the tournament. He described his side as “the most oppressed” team at the World Cup and argued that the constant travel prevented the players from preparing properly.

Captain Mehdi Taremi shared the same view. He said the political tension surrounding the tournament took away from the joy of playing at football’s biggest event and admitted the squad felt the pressure from the moment they arrived.

A Tournament to Remember for More Than Football

Although Iran failed to reach the knockout stage, the team’s performances remained competitive until the final moments of the group stage. However, their World Cup campaign will be remembered as much for the off-field challenges as the football itself.

Mullin’s comments have added another controversial chapter to an already tense story, ensuring the debate surrounding Iran’s treatment at the tournament is likely to continue well beyond the World Cup.