Iran Signals Possible Withdrawal From 2026 World Cup Over Security Fears
Iran may be unable to take part in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup due to safety concerns linked to ongoing regional tensions, according to the country’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali.
Donyamali stated that the current security situation makes it difficult for the national team to safely compete in the global tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Iran had been scheduled to play three group-stage matches in the competition. The fixtures included encounters with New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and June 21 respectively, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
The development follows escalating hostilities in the region after reported military strikes by the United States and Israel that allegedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Iran reportedly responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and countries hosting US military installations.
Despite assurances from Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, who said that US President Donald Trump had confirmed Iran would be welcome to participate in the tournament, Donyamali maintained that the team’s safety could not be guaranteed.
In comments reported by BBC Sport, the minister said the prevailing circumstances make participation impossible, adding that the prolonged conflict over the past nine months has resulted in thousands of casualties.
The uncertainty surrounding Iran’s involvement could affect the tournament’s group-stage planning and overall schedule.
Meanwhile, Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, had earlier expressed doubts about the country’s ability to compete. His concerns followed reports that six players from Iran’s women’s national team were granted humanitarian visas in Australia over safety worries.
After Iran’s elimination from the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, the remaining players departed Australia earlier this week. Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that seven individuals were granted asylum, although one later decided to return to Iran.
Taj also questioned the wisdom of sending the men’s team to the United States if the current climate persists, saying no rational decision-maker would approve such a move under similar conditions.
Should Iran officially withdraw from what would have been its fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, FIFA regulations allow the global football body to choose a replacement team. While a side from the Asian Football Confederation could be considered such as Iraq or the United Arab Emirates as FIFA’s rules do not require the replacement to come from the same regional confederation.
