Iran threatens to withdraw from 2026 World Cup

Iran's Football Federation leaves open the possibility of not participating in the 2026 World Cup, following the death of the country's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in US and Israeli airstrikes.

Speaking on Tehran television, Mehdi Taj, President of the Iran Football Federation (FFIRI), stated, "Given today's events and the US attack, it will be very difficult for us to focus on the 2026 World Cup". He emphasized that the final decision rests with sports authorities.

On the morning of 28/2, the US and Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iranian political and military leaders. They cited Tehran's refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions and long-range ballistic missile development as justification. Over 200 people died in Iran.

Iran retaliated with ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel and US bases in Middle Eastern countries. At least one person died in Israel. The United Nations and many nations called for restraint, an end to the conflict, and a peaceful resolution.

About 15 hours after the operation began, US President Donald Trump declared Iran's Supreme Leader "had been killed". He warned that the attacks would continue, urging the Iranian military to lay down arms and the Iranian people to "take back their country". Iranian media confirmed the Supreme Leader's death 3,5 hours later, stating many of his relatives also died.

Amidst these developments, FIFA leaders are reportedly rushing to assess the impact on tournament organization. Speaking at the FIFA General Assembly (IFAB) meeting in Wales, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom said, "We read the news like everyone else this morning. It's too early to comment in detail, but we will closely monitor all global developments. The goal is to host a safe World Cup with full team participation."

Iran qualified for their fourth consecutive World Cup after topping Group A in the Asian qualifiers. However, their plan to train at Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, Arizona, is now at risk. In the 2026 World Cup, Iran is in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. Group stage matches are scheduled for Los Angeles and Seattle. If they finish second in their group, Iran could face the US in Dallas on 3/7.

The 2026 World Cup will be held in Canada, the US, and Mexico from 11/6 to 19/7. It will feature 48 teams playing a total of 104 matches across 16 cities in the three host nations. While a team might play only in Canada or Mexico during the group stage, they will likely play in the US during the knockout rounds, as the country hosts a total of 78 matches.

Even if Iran participates in the 2026 World Cup, its fans would struggle to travel to the US to support their team. Iran is on a list of over 40 countries with travel restrictions to the US. The US might only grant exemptions for players, coaching staff, and team personnel. Canada and Mexico, which host a total of 26 matches, do not have similar travel ban lists.