Iran’s government has signaled that its national football team may not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing security concerns following the killing of the country’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, amid ongoing hostilities with the United States.
Speaking on state television, Ahmad Donyamali said it would be impossible for Iranian players to travel to the United States, where the tournament will be jointly hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
“Due to the wicked acts they have done against Iran, they have imposed two wars on us over just eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Definitely it’s not possible for us to take part in the World Cup,” Donyamali stated.
Iran had already qualified for the tournament and was scheduled to open against New Zealand national football team in Inglewood on June 15, followed by a match against Belgium national football team on June 21, and concluding its group stage against Egypt national football team in Seattle on June 26.
The uncertainty over Iran’s participation intensified after the US and Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian territory on February 28.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said former US President Donald Trump assured him that Iran would still be welcomed to compete. Infantino described their discussion on social media, emphasizing that international sporting events like the World Cup can foster unity even amid conflict.
Still, Iranian football officials have expressed concerns. Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran and vice president of the Asian Football Confederation, said the attacks had fundamentally changed the situation.
“What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope,” Taj said.
If Iran withdraws, FIFA rules provide limited guidance on replacements, though Iraq or the United Arab Emirates could potentially take its place in Group G.
Separately, six members of Iran’s delegation from the AFC Women’s Asian Cup were granted humanitarian visas in Australia after elimination from the tournament. Concerns over safety emerged after some players initially refused to sing the national anthem, prompting scrutiny from government supporters. Some players later chose to remain in Australia, while others returned to Iran.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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