Iran Will Not Participate in 2026 World Cup Following Leader’s Death

Iran will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in recent airstrikes conducted by the United States and Israel, Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali announced on Wednesday . Donyamali stated that, given the circumstances, Iran’s participation is impossible.

Trump’s Shifting Stance and FIFA’s Response

The decision follows a period of conflicting statements regarding Iran’s participation. Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump stated he “really didn’t care” if Iran played in the World Cup . However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino subsequently reported that Trump assured him Iran would be “welcome” to compete . Infantino highlighted the importance of the World Cup as an event to bring people together .

Iran’s Position and Group Stage Schedule

Iran was drawn into Group G, with matches scheduled against Belgium and New Zealand in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle . The team’s participation was already in doubt following the initial airstrikes on February 28th .

Internal Doubts and Regional Conflict

Prior to Donyamali’s announcement, Iranian officials had already expressed skepticism about their team’s ability to compete. Mehdi Taj, a vice president of the Asian Football Confederation, stated that expecting the team to look forward to the World Cup after the attack was unrealistic . The attacks have escalated regional conflict, with Iran retaliating against Israel, and U.S. Military bases .

Potential Replacement and Player Asylum Requests

FIFA’s rules regarding team withdrawals are not fully defined, but Iraq or the UAE could potentially take Iran’s place in Group G . Six members of the Iranian delegation were granted humanitarian visas following the Women’s Asian Cup, with several players initially seeking asylum in Australia .