Iran’s participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup in the United States is uncertain after the country’s football federation expressed concerns about competing amid escalating military tensions.
Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s football federation, said the national team may reconsider its involvement following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions, which he described as “vicious.” The situation has intensified after the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran on U.S. and Israeli military bases across the Middle East.
Iran has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. However, Taj indicated that the ongoing conflict and national mood would heavily influence any decision about participating in the tournament.
“It’s not possible to say exactly, but there will certainly be a response,” Taj said in an interview on state television. “Due to this attack and its viciousness, it is far from our expectations that we can look at the World Cup with hope.”
With just over 100 days until the tournament begins, FIFA has not provided a clear position on Iran’s status. The football governing body said it is monitoring developments but considers it premature to comment in detail.
If Iran decides to withdraw, FIFA would need to introduce a replacement team, which could affect the tournament structure. Iraq, currently competing in the Inter-Continental playoff final, could potentially take Iran’s place if successful. The United Arab Emirates may also be considered, having narrowly missed qualification in earlier rounds.
Iran’s preparations have already been disrupted. The national team is unable to hold friendly matches during a 40-day mourning period following Khamenei’s death. In addition, travel restrictions mean Iranian supporters would face difficulties attending matches in the United States, with visa exemptions expected to apply only to players and official staff.
While U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the conflict will end quickly, uncertainty remains over whether Iran will be able to compete when the World Cup kicks off.
A withdrawal at this stage would be unusual, though not without precedent. FIFA previously excluded Russia from the 2022 World Cup following its invasion of Ukraine.
