Iran Will Not Participate in 2026 World Cup

Iran will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, according to a statement from the country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali. The decision comes amid heightened tensions following attacks by the U.S. And Israel that resulted in the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran.

Escalating Conflict and the Decision to Withdraw

The prospect of Iran’s participation in the tournament had been in doubt since February 28th, when the U.S. And Israel initiated strikes within Iran [Source: USA Today]. Donyamali stated that, given the current circumstances, it is “not feasible” for Iran to send a team to the United States.

“Considering that this corrupt regime [the US] has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali told state television [Source: The Guardian]. He further emphasized concerns for the safety of Iranian players, stating, “Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist.”

FIFA and US President Trump’s Statements

FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously stated that U.S. President Donald Trump had indicated Iran would be “welcome” to compete in the World Cup despite the ongoing conflict [Source: CBS Sports]. Though, Trump later indicated he did not have a strong opinion on Iran’s participation.

Scheduled Matches Now in Doubt

Iran was originally scheduled to play New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 [Source: USA Today]. These matches are now uncertain following Donyamali’s declaration.

Minister’s Strong Stance

Donyamali reinforced his position, stating that the “malicious actions” taken against Iran, including what he described as two imposed wars and the deaths of thousands of Iranians, preclude any possibility of participation [Source: Times Now News].

FIFA has been contacted for comment on Donyamali’s announcement.