Iran pulls out of 2026 FIFA World Cup amid escalating conflict

Iran has announced that it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the escalation of hostilities involving the United States and Israel.

The country’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, confirmed the decision, stating that Iran would not take part in the global tournament scheduled for June to July this year.

According to the minister, the move follows recent attacks by the United States and Israel that reportedly led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, further intensifying tensions in the Middle East.

The conflict has since expanded, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes on United States military bases across the region.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Iran had been scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and June 21 respectively, before playing their final group-stage match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

However, Donyamali said Iran would not travel to the United States for the tournament under the current circumstances.

He explained that following the assassination of the country’s leader and the ongoing conflict, it would not be appropriate for Iran to participate in the World Cup at this time.