Iran has announced it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the ongoing conflict with the United States.
The decision was confirmed on Wednesday by Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, during an appearance on state television. According to him, the withdrawal follows escalating tensions after the reported assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali said.
The tournament, which will feature 48 teams, is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across United States, Mexico and Canada.
Iran had earlier secured qualification for the competition after finishing among the top two teams in Group A of the Asian qualifiers. The team was drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with group matches expected to be played in U.S. cities such as Seattle and Los Angeles.
Donyamali said the current security situation makes participation impossible for the country.
“Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist,” he said.
“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.”
The withdrawal presents a major challenge for FIFA, led by its president, Gianni Infantino. Under FIFA regulations, the organization now has the authority to determine how the vacant spot in Group G will be filled.
Reports suggest that Iraq and the United Arab Emirates could be considered as possible replacements from the Asian football confederation.
However, the withdrawal may come with consequences. FIFA rules state that any nation that pulls out less than 30 days before the start of the tournament could face a minimum fine of €550,000 and possible sporting sanctions, including the risk of exclusion from future competitions such as the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
