Iran has announced it will not take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, citing political tensions and recent regional conflicts.
Iran has announced it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran’s Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donjamali, said the decision follows rising tensions after recent regional conflicts.
“Since this corrupt government has assassinated our leader, we have no intention of participating in the World Cup,” Donjamali said, adding: “Two wars have been imposed on us in eight or nine months and several thousand of our citizens have been killed… We have absolutely no chance of participating.” Meanwhile, Gianni Infantino said the Iranian team would be welcome at the tournament.
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