Iran Men’s Football team set to participate in W’Cup despite safety warnings

The Iranian men’s national football team remains on course to play in this summer’s FIFA World Cup in North America, Asian football officials confirmed on Monday, despite warnings that the players’ safety could be at risk.

President Donald Trump had earlier cautioned that the team’s “life and safety” might be endangered if they traveled to the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the tournament, which has been thrown into uncertainty by the ongoing US-Israeli strikes in Iran that began on February 28.

“As far as we know, Iran is playing,” said Windsor Paul John, General Secretary of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), at a press briefing in Kuala Lumpur. “We are monitoring the situation, but there is no official information that they will not participate.” He added that the AFC hopes the team resolves outstanding issues to take part in the global tournament.

Meanwhile, the Iranian women’s football team has seen developments after seven members of its delegation sought asylum in Australia following the Asian Cup, citing threats at home for refusing to sing the national anthem. Reports indicate that the team captain has withdrawn her asylum bid, leaving only two players set to remain in Australia. The remaining players are preparing to return to Iran, reportedly under pressure due to threats against their families.

Windsor assured that the AFC will respect the team’s decision regarding their immediate plans, saying, “It’s their decision and we will support that.”