Iran’s government has said the national football team will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US‑Israeli airstrikes and the outbreak of a broader armed conflict in the Middle East, reports nation.com.pk.
Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali told state television yesterday that “under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup” in the United States, Mexico and Canada, accusing the United States of assassinating Iran’s leader and creating unacceptable conditions for the team’s involvement.
He said the US and Israel had forced multiple wars on Iran, resulting in thousands of casualties, and that the national team could not be sent to compete in what Tehran described as an unsafe environment.
Iran was the first team to qualify for the expanded 48‑nation tournament, but all of its Group G matches—including fixtures scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle—are set to be played on US soil.
Despite Iran’s announcement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he had discussed the situation with US President Donald Trump, who reiterated that the Iranian team is welcome to compete in the tournament.
Infantino described football as a unifying force and emphasised the World Cup’s importance amid global tensions, although Tehran’s stance suggests the political and security environment remains a barrier to participation.
Iran’s withdrawal leaves a potential vacancy in Group G.
FIFA has not yet confirmed how it will proceed, but replacement teams or sanctions are possible if Iran’s absence is formalised.
