Iran Pulls Out of 2026 FIFA World Cup Amid US-Israel Tensions

Iran has announced it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The decision was confirmed by Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, during an interview with state media.

Donyamali cited escalating tensions with the US and Israel as the primary reason for the boycott. The announcement follows a period of heightened conflict in the region, including Iran’s military response to attacks on its territory.

Iran had qualified for the tournament last year, securing a top-two finish in Group A of the Asian qualifiers. Despite FIFA’s assurances regarding safe participation, Iran did not attend the recent FIFA planning summit in Atlanta, signaling its withdrawal from preparations for the World Cup.

“Given the actions of this government against our nation and the consecutive conflicts that resulted in significant loss of life, there are no conditions under which we can participate,” Donyamali said.

If upheld, Iran will join a select group of nations that have historically boycotted the World Cup despite qualifying, including Uruguay, Turkey, India, and France.