Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, has declared that the nation’s football team will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Speaking on Iranian state television, Donyamali stated:
“We cannot, under any circumstances, take part in a World Cup hosted in the country whose corrupt government has murdered our leader.”
The announcement comes amid escalating regional tensions following nearly two weeks of conflict between Iran and Israel, which has drawn in the United States. Recent airstrikes by U.S. and Israeli forces reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with other senior officials. Donyamali emphasised the humanitarian consequences:
“In the last eight to nine months, two wars have been imposed on us. Thousands of our people have been killed. When our children’s safety cannot be guaranteed, the question of playing football abroad does not even arise.”
Iran’s World Cup Group and Schedule
According to the December 2025 draw, Iran is placed in Group G, alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. All three of Iran’s group-stage matches were scheduled in the United States—two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. Should both Iran and the United States finish second in their respective groups, the teams would meet in the Round of 32 on 3 July.
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Belgium | Los Angeles |
| Group Stage | Egypt | Los Angeles |
| Group Stage | New Zealand | Seattle |
| Round of 32* | USA | TBD |
*Conditional match if both teams finish second in their groups
Iran notably skipped last week’s FIFA preparatory meeting in Atlanta, sparking debate and speculation. Former U.S. President Donald Trump also commented on Iran’s participation, describing the country as “very badly beaten” in sporting terms, appearing dismissive of its World Cup prospects.
FIFA’s Position
FIFA President Gianni Infantino remains cautiously optimistic. After meeting with President Trump, Infantino posted on social media that the United States had assured him Iran would be allowed to participate:
“We discussed Iran’s current situation. President Trump confirmed that he has no objection to the Iranian team participating in the tournament in the United States.”
Infantino suggested that the World Cup could serve as a unifying global event amid political instability, highlighting football’s potential to bring people together in turbulent times.
FIFA Chief Operating Officer Heimo Shirgi added that the tournament could not be postponed despite regional unrest but that FIFA was closely monitoring the situation:
“We are evaluating the daily circumstances. At some point, the situation will resolve, and the World Cup will go ahead. It is such a large event that we hope all qualified teams will be able to participate.”
Potential Consequences
If Iran ultimately withdraws, FIFA faces a complex challenge. In 2023, Indonesia lost hosting rights for the U-20 World Cup after refusing to host Israel. With the United States hosting in 2026, FIFA must provide safety assurances while maintaining political neutrality. A voluntary withdrawal by Iran could set a precedent for how global football navigates conflicts involving participating nations.
This unfolding situation highlights the delicate interplay of sport, politics, and diplomacy, emphasising the difficult position of teams from conflict-affected countries and the responsibilities of governing bodies in maintaining global tournaments.