Iran Withdraws from 2026 World Cup Amid Tensions

Iran's Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, confirmed that the Iranian national football team will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June to July 2026. This decision follows a joint attack by the United States and Israel that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, escalating tensions in the region.

The Iranian team was drawn into a group that included New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with matches set in Los Angeles on June 15, June 21, and Seattle on June 26. Donyamali stated in a televised interview that the current political situation made participation impossible, despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino receiving assurances that the Iranian team would be allowed to compete amidst rising tensions.