Iran has signalled it may boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite assurances from the United States that its national team would be safe during the tournament.
The global football competition is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, disclosed the country’s position, citing escalating tensions following the death of the country’s former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
According to Donyamali, Iran may not take part in a tournament hosted in part by a country it accuses of being responsible for the killing of its leader.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” he said.
World football governing body, FIFA, has yet to officially respond to Iran’s position.
However, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, had earlier stated that the Iranian national team would be welcomed to the tournament.
Infantino also revealed that he recently met with Donald J. Trump to discuss preparations for the competition and issues surrounding Iran’s participation.
According to him, Trump assured that the Iranian team would be guaranteed safety and allowed to compete when the tournament begins.
“We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever,” Infantino said, emphasizing that football remains a powerful platform for global unity.
Iran’s possible withdrawal could trigger a major diplomatic and sporting dispute, particularly as the country had already qualified for the tournament.
The situation highlights how geopolitical tensions can spill into international sporting events, raising broader questions about diplomacy, participation and the unifying role of global competitions like the World Cup.
