"Given that this corrupt government assassinated our leader, there are no conditions which allow us to participate in the World Cup. What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope."
"U.S. President Donald Trump assured FIFA that Iran are welcome to compete in the tournament according to Gianni Infantino after previously saying that he really didn't care whether Iran was involved or not."
"Iran was due to play two matches in Los Angeles in June -- against New Zealand and Belgium, respectively -- before facing Egypt in Seattle in their final group stage match. However, their participation was thrown into doubt after the U.S. and Israel began launching airstrikes on Feb. 28."
Iran's sports minister Ahmad Donyamali announced that Iran cannot participate in the 2026 World Cup following airstrikes by the United States and Israel that began on February 28. The minister referenced the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as making participation impossible under current conditions. Iran was scheduled to play matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium, plus a final group stage match against Egypt in Seattle. U.S. President Donald Trump stated Iran is welcome to compete, though he previously expressed indifference about their participation. Iranian soccer officials had already expressed doubts about attending the tournament following the military attacks. FIFA's withdrawal rules remain unclear, but Iraq or the UAE could potentially replace Iran in Group G.
#2026-world-cup #iran-withdrawal #us-israel-airstrikes #fifa-regulations #international-sports-politics
Read at ESPN.com
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