Iran rules out participation in 2026 FIFA World Cup in US after airstrikes

Tehran — Iran will not take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, following recent airstrikes by the US and Israel, according to Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali.

Speaking to state television on Wednesday, Donyamali stated, “Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.” The minister was referring to the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which has led to widespread conflict in the region.

The 48-team FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. However, Donyamali emphasized that the current security situation makes it impossible for Iran to send its team. “Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist,” he said.

He further added, “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.”

According to Iran’s UN ambassador, more than 1,300 Iranian civilians have been killed since the US and Israeli airstrikes began on February 28.

The decision marks a significant development ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as Iran has regularly featured in recent editions of the tournament. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues to impact the region.