Iran Declares “No Circumstances” for World Cup Participation Amid Rising Tensions with the US
Iran has officially stated that its national football team will not participate in the upcoming World Cup, scheduled to take place this summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This declaration follows heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly after the U.S. launched joint attacks on Tehran alongside Israel on February 28.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently communicated with U.S. President Donald Trump, who assured him that Iran was “welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.” Despite this reassurance, Iranian officials have made it clear that the national team will not take part in the event.
Iran’s Stance on Participation
Iran’s Minister of Sport and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, emphasized that the nation would not be involved in the 48-team tournament, particularly in light of the recent assassination of its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, by U.S. forces. Donyamali stated, “Considering that this corrupt [U.S.] regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.”
While Iran has not formally withdrawn from the tournament, the likelihood of their participation diminishes as tensions escalate. The Iranian government continues to engage in military actions in the region, further complicating the situation. Trump has indicated that hostilities will only cease when Iran offers unconditional surrender and appoints new leadership.
Implications of Withdrawal
Should Iran decide to withdraw or be banned from participating, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are positioned to potentially benefit from this development. FIFA regulations stipulate that any member association withdrawing from the World Cup may face fines up to CHF 500,000 (approximately Dh 2.39 million) and must reimburse any tournament-related payments received.
According to Article 6.2 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 regulations, a member association that withdraws more than 30 days before the tournament begins will incur a minimum fine of CHF 250,000. If the withdrawal occurs fewer than 30 days prior, the fine increases to CHF 500,000. Additionally, any association that withdraws will be required to repay preparation funds and other contributions received from FIFA.
Potential Replacements for Iran
As it stands, Iran is scheduled to compete in Group G against Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, with matches planned in Los Angeles and Seattle. However, if Iran withdraws, FIFA has the discretion to nominate a replacement team from the Asian Football Confederation, which could include Iraq or the UAE.
Iran secured its spot in the World Cup by topping Group A in Asian qualification with 26 points. The UAE finished third in that group, entering a playoff tournament in Qatar, where they could only secure a second-place finish.
Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s football federation, expressed uncertainty about the national team’s future in light of the ongoing conflict. He remarked that the recent attacks have diminished any hope for a positive outlook toward the World Cup.
The Road Ahead for Iraq and the UAE
If Iran opts to withdraw, Iraq could be considered as a replacement. Iraq is currently preparing for an inter-confederation playoff against either Suriname or Bolivia, although travel disruptions due to the ongoing conflict may complicate this process. Iraq’s coach, Graham Arnold, has called for FIFA to delay the playoff due to concerns over travel and administrative delays.
Should Iraq replace Iran, it could open the door for the UAE to participate in the World Cup, although this is not guaranteed. The UAE, ranked 58th among Asian teams, is the highest-ranked team that did not qualify outright for the tournament.
Historical Context of Withdrawals
Historically, teams have withdrawn from the World Cup. The 1950 tournament in Brazil saw Turkey, Scotland, and India withdraw, primarily due to travel costs and registration issues. Portugal was invited to replace Turkey but declined, citing similar concerns. Ultimately, the tournament proceeded with only 13 teams instead of the planned 16.
In the 1938 World Cup, Austria withdrew following its annexation by Nazi Germany, and no replacement was invited. Sweden, Austria’s opponent, received a bye into the next round.
The current situation surrounding Iran’s potential withdrawal from the World Cup remains fluid, with implications that could resonate throughout the Asian football landscape.
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Published on 2026-03-11 11:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk