Iran World Cup boycott threat after US airstrikes, sports minister says
Iran has signaled a possible Iran World Cup boycott ahead of the 2026 FIFA tournament. The warning came from Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali on Wednesday. He said Iran cannot participate in a competition hosted partly by the United States. His remarks follow recent US airstrikes carried out alongside Israel.
According to Iranian officials, the attacks killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The strikes also triggered a wider regional conflict. Because of this situation, the minister said participation is impossible. He argued that the country cannot compete under such conditions. Therefore, the government is considering staying away from the tournament.
Donyamali also cited civilian casualties during the conflict. Iran’s UN ambassador reported that more than 1,300 civilians have died since the strikes began on February 28. “Our children are not safe,” the minister told state television. As a result, he said the environment does not support sporting participation.
The Iran World Cup boycott could affect preparations for the global event. The 48-team tournament will run from June 11 to July 19 across the US, Mexico, and Canada.
FIFA Rules and Group Matches
Iran already qualified after dominating Asian qualifiers last year. The team was placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. All three group matches are scheduled in the United States. Two games are set for Los Angeles, while another will take place in Seattle.
However, uncertainty now surrounds those fixtures. Iran was also absent from a recent FIFA planning summit held in Atlanta.
FIFA rules outline penalties for late withdrawals. For example, teams that pull out at least 30 days before the first match face a minimum fine of 250,000 Swiss francs. In addition, FIFA may replace the withdrawing team with another national side. The organization could also impose further disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said US President Donald Trump welcomes Iran’s participation. Despite the political tensions, he stated the team would be allowed to compete.
Still, the possibility of an Iran World Cup boycott raises questions about tickets, logistics, and tournament planning. Fans and organizers now wait for an official decision.
