- Iran announces withdrawal from the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Decision linked to rising tensions with the United States
- Sports minister Ahmad Donyamali confirms decision on state TV
- Iran had already qualified and was placed in Group G
Iran has announced it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing escalating tensions with the United States following recent geopolitical developments.
The government of Iran has confirmed it will not take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite previously qualifying for the global tournament.
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The announcement was made by Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, during a state television appearance on Wednesday.
According to Donyamali, the decision follows escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly after reports surrounding the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali stated.
The 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams, is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026 across three host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Iran had successfully qualified for the tournament after finishing in the top two of Group A in the Asian qualifiers.
The Iranian national team had also been drawn into Group G, alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.
Their group matches were expected to take place in U.S. cities such as Seattle and Los Angeles.
Donyamali stressed that the ongoing conflict and security concerns make participation impossible.
“Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist,” he said.
He further accused the United States of actions that have led to prolonged conflict and significant casualties.
“Given the malicious actions they have carried out against Iran, they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Therefore, we certainly cannot have such a presence.”
Iran’s withdrawal could significantly impact the tournament’s structure, as football’s global governing body, FIFA, may need to determine whether another team will replace Iran in the competition.