"Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup. 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."
"President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States. We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring the world together and to show that, despite all the current tensions and challenges, sport can still unite people."
Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup faced multiple obstacles before escalating geopolitical tensions. The U.S. government denied visas to Iranian delegation members and implemented travel restrictions preventing most Iranian fans from attending. Controversy emerged over an LGBTQ Pride event scheduled during an Iran-Egypt match. Following military conflict between the U.S. and Iran, the Iranian sports minister Ahmad Donyamali declared Iran cannot participate in the tournament, citing the assassination of Iranian leaders and thousands of casualties from recent conflicts. FIFA president Gianni Infantino stated that President Trump welcomed Iran's participation, but Iran's official position remained firm against competing.
Read at Defector
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