Iran’s Sports and Youth Minister Ahmad Donyamali has announced that the country will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing escalating geopolitical tensions and security concerns.
Speaking to Iranian state television on Wednesday, Donyamali said Iran could not take part in a tournament partially hosted by the United States, following recent military tensions involving the U.S. and its allies. He stated that under the current circumstances, it would be impossible for the national team to travel and compete in the tournament.
The Iran national football team had already qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament and was drawn in Group G alongside Belgium national football team, Egypt national football team, and New Zealand national football team.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran’s group-stage matches scheduled to take place in U.S. cities.
World football governing body FIFA has not yet confirmed Iran’s withdrawal. If the country formally pulls out, FIFA would be required to find a replacement team for the group and could impose disciplinary sanctions on the Iranian football federation.
The situation now leaves uncertainty over whether Iran will officially withdraw or if diplomatic negotiations could still allow the team to participate in the tournament next year. ⚽
