Iran and the FIFA World Cup 2026

Iranian sports minister Ahmad Donyamali has signalled that his nation
will not play in the tournament, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and
Mexico – a potential withdrawal that leaves FIFA pondering options

Gianni Infantino.
FIFA President has
been assured by
Donald Trump
that Iran are
welcome at
tournament

Iran: FIFA World Cup fixtures
Jun 15	New Zealand	Los Angeles
Jun 21	Belgium		Los Angeles
Jun 26	Egypt		Seattle

If Iran and U.S. both finish second
in respective groups, they would face
each other in knock-out round on July 3

FIFA: Options for uncharted territory

Regulations state FIFA shall rule
on matter at its sole discretion

Replace Iran – possibly
with alternative team from Asia.
Iraq and UAE would have 
strongest claims

Continue with only
three teams participating
in Group G. All teams would
then qualify for knock-outs

1950: India and
France withdraw from
World Cup due to travel
costs to Brazil – last time
any nation boycotted event

Jun 11, 2026: F	IFA World
Cup begins. Growing disputes
include Iran war, funding issues,
use of ICE agents and outbreak
of cartel violence in Mexico

Sources: Reuters, BBC, Sky Sports
Picture: Getty Images
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