TEHRAN (Kashmir English): Iran has indicated that it may withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following recent US airstrikes, raising serious questions over its participation in the global football showpiece.
Iran had qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the fourth consecutive time after finishing first in its Asian qualifying group.
However, the deteriorating regional security situation has cast a shadow over the team’s involvement.
The tournament is scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj said that participating in the World Cup under the current circumstances “appears difficult,” signalling that Tehran is reassessing its stance.
Iran is due to play its opening World Cup match against New Zealand in Los Angeles in 107 days.
Meanwhile, FIFA officials have said they are closely monitoring the situation, stressing that the safety of teams, officials, and fans remains the top priority.
Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. According to the draw, if Iran and the United States finish second in their respective groups, a potential high-stakes clash could take place in Dallas on July 3.
The situation has introduced fresh uncertainty into the World Cup build-up, with Iran’s participation now hanging in the balance as geopolitical tensions spill over into the world of sport.
