Iran’s World Cup Status in Doubt After US and Israel Attacks
The Iranian national football team’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is now uncertain following recent US and Israeli attacks on the country, which resulted in significant casualties, including the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Iran Football Federation president, Mehdi Taj, has expressed doubt about the team’s ability to compete with hope given the current circumstances.
Recent Attacks and Their Impact
The attacks, which began on Saturday, February 28, 2026, have led to a reported death toll of 201, with 747 people injured as of Sunday, March 1, 2026 [USAToday]. Taj stated, “What is certain is that after these attacks, it’s hard to look at the World Cup with hope.” [USAToday]
Iran has retaliated with attacks on countries including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates, all of which host US military bases. [USAToday]
World Cup Schedule and Potential Disruptions
Iran was drawn into Group G for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Their scheduled matches include:
- June 15: vs. Novel Zealand in Los Angeles
- June 21: vs. Belgium in Los Angeles
- June 26: vs. Egypt in Seattle
The conflict’s timing is particularly challenging, occurring just months before Iran was scheduled to travel to the United States for the tournament. [USAToday]
Visa Issues and FIFA’s Response
Prior to the recent attacks, Iran faced visa challenges, with the US denying visas to much of the Iranian delegation for the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., in late 2025, leading to threats of a boycott. [GBC Ghana Online]
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom stated the organization is closely monitoring the situation and its potential impact on the tournament. [USAToday] He affirmed FIFA’s focus on ensuring the safety of all participating teams and supporters. [USAToday]
Despite previous tensions, Grafstrom also noted that all teams participated in the finals draw in Washington D.C. And FIFA remains committed to a safe World Cup with full participation. [USAToday]
Domestic League Suspension and Federation Deliberations
As of March 1, 2026, Iran has not officially withdrawn from the World Cup, but their participation is in serious doubt. [Outlook India] The Iranian domestic league has been suspended, and the federation is currently consulting with government officials to determine the next steps. [Outlook India]
Travel Restrictions
Visitors from Iran are already facing restrictions, with a travel ban in place that includes Iran among 19 countries, initially announced by the Trump administration in June of a previous year. [USAToday]