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Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, despite earlier optimistic statements from international football leaders. Political developments and security concerns are directly influencing the final decision-making.
Iran's Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that there is still no final decision on participation in the tournament, emphasizing that everything will depend on the political and security situation.
This statement contradicts the stance of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who had previously assured that Iran would be part of the World Cup "for sure."
Geopolitical tensions and the impact on the tournament
Tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran have raised serious questions about the organization and conduct of the matches. US President Donald Trump has also given mixed signals: on the one hand, he has declared that Iran is welcome at the tournament, while on the other hand, he has advised against travel for security reasons.
Request for match relocation
The Iranian Football Federation has requested that matches scheduled in the United States be moved to Mexico, one of the tournament's co-hosts. Iran is currently scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand in America.
According to Minister Donyamali, all options remain open.
" We need to be prepared for every scenario. We may decide not to participate, or if we do, to show up strongly ," he said.
The final decision may also be reviewed by the highest state institutions in Iran.
The 2026 World Cup will be held in three countries: the United States, Mexico and Canada, with the majority of matches scheduled in the American state. Any decision by Iran is expected to have a direct impact on the organization of the tournament.
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