Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali announced in a statement to Reuters that the Iranian national football team will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the minister, this decision is due to the “corrupt” policies and military actions carried out by the US regime against Iran. He emphasized: “Considering that this corrupt regime has killed our leader, we cannot under any circumstances participate in the World Cup. Our children are not safe, and in general, there are no conditions for participation.”

Donyamali referenced air strikes by the US and Israel on Iran’s civilian population, which have reportedly killed over 1,300 people. He stated: “Based on their villainous actions against Iran, they have waged two wars against us in eight to nine months and killed thousands of our people. Therefore, we certainly cannot have such participation.” This statement openly demonstrates Iran’s sharp stance against the US regime’s aggressive measures.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, as he wrote on his Instagram page, met with US President Donald Trump to discuss preparations for the 2026 World Cup and “the current situation in Iran.” According to Infantino, Trump allegedly “welcomed” Iran’s participation in the tournament, but this contrasts starkly with the US regime’s military actions against Iran. FIFA has not yet commented on the Iranian minister’s statement, but since no country has voluntarily withdrawn from the World Cup finals since 1950, this decision could lead to fines and disqualification under FIFA regulations.

The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19 in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The Iranian team was scheduled to play in the group stage in Los Angeles and Seattle against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. While it is unclear if Iran has submitted an official notification, this decision is expected to cause significant resonance in the international football community, highlighting the geopolitical tensions overshadowing the sport.

Source: www.gazeta.uz