Farhad lived in US for 47 years
Iranian-American fan Farhad came to the US from Iran 47 years ago, having spent two-thirds of his life in America.
Where this was said
Introduction to Farhad and Kevin
At 21:39 · chapter starts 20:20
Natalie Kitroeff sets up the personal story that will dominate the rest of the episode. Producer Anna Foley went to Los Angeles just hours before Iran's first 2026 World Cup game and sat down with a father and son — Farhad and Kevin — who are lifelong Iranian team fans. Their story, Kitroeff explains, is about the 'complex business of sorting out national pride and fandom — in the middle of war.'
Farhad's Visa: An Act of God
Farhad spent five years trying to get a US visa before the Iranian Revolution. One day he showed up at the embassy — the whole street was filled with people. Then a consular officer called his name with no microphone, no speaker, just his voice. Farhad has replayed that moment every day of his 47 years in America.
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