Iran's Sports Minister Declares World Cup Participation Impossible
Iran's sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, has reportedly stated that his nation cannot take part in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup under any circumstances. This announcement comes amidst heightened geopolitical tensions following recent military conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Background of the Conflict
The situation escalated on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched air strikes on Iran. Iran responded with retaliatory attacks on Israel and other Middle Eastern countries hosting US military bases. These events have created a volatile environment that directly impacts Iran's planned participation in the World Cup.
Iran was scheduled to play all three of their group stage matches in the United States during this summer's tournament. There was even potential for Iran to face the US co-hosts in the round of 32 if both teams finished second in their respective groups.
Minister's Statement on State Television
Donyamali appeared on Iranian state television to deliver his definitive statement regarding World Cup participation. "Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup," he declared.
The minister was referring to the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the initial attacks. He has since been succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Donyamali further elaborated on his position, stating: "Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist. 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."
FIFA's Response and Trump's Comments
FIFA has been contacted for comment regarding the minister's reported remarks. Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino posted on Instagram about his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump.
Infantino wrote: "This evening, I met with the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump to discuss the status of preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and the growing excitement as we are set to kick off in just 93 days. We also spoke about the current situation in Iran, and the fact that the Iranian team has qualified to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026."
According to Infantino, Trump "reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States." This contrasts with Trump's earlier statement this month that he "really didn't care" if Iran played at the World Cup.
Infantino emphasized the unifying power of football, adding: "We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the President of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that Football Unites the World."
Humanitarian Visa Developments
In related developments, six members of Iran's delegation have been granted humanitarian visas following the team's exit from the Women's Asian Cup football tournament in Australia. Initially, five players sought asylum, and Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that an additional player and one member of the team's support staff had since indicated their desire to remain in the country.
Burke noted that one of those two individuals later changed their mind and decided to return to Iran. There have been concerns about the team's safety upon their return after players chose not to sing the national anthem before their first match at the Asian Cup against South Korea.
This action drew criticism from supporters of the Iranian regime, though the team did sing and salute during their second and third group games. Trump had previously called on Australia to grant asylum to the entire Iranian team and stated that the US would do so if Australia did not comply.
The situation remains fluid as the World Cup approaches, with Iran's participation now appearing increasingly unlikely despite FIFA's efforts to maintain the tournament's inclusive spirit.
