Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says

Iran’s Sports Minister Declares Team Will Not Compete in World Cup

The Iranian sports minister has stated that the country’s national team will not take part in this year’s World Cup, regardless of circumstances. This comes amid heightened tensions following recent military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which Tehran has responded to with targeted strikes on American interests in the Middle East.

FIFA’s Assurance and Minister’s Protest

FIFA president Gianni Infantino recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump to address the progress of preparations for the tournament. During the discussion, Trump assured that Iran would be welcomed to compete, despite the ongoing conflict. However, the Iranian minister, Ahmad Donyamali, dismissed this, stating:

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader—Ayatollah Ali Khamenei—under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup.”

Team’s Upcoming Matches and Political Context

Iran’s men’s squad is set to face New Zealand in the U.S. during June, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt. Meanwhile, Trump, who previously received FIFA’s first peace prize, had expressed indifference toward Iran’s participation, saying, “I really don’t care” if the team joins the tournament. Infantino later reiterated this stance on Instagram, noting:

“President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”

Women’s Team and Visa Controversy

Earlier this week, six members of Iran’s women’s football team—five players and one staff member—were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem during a game. They had participated in the Asian Cup, and one player has since chosen to return to Iran. A travel ban imposed by Trump prevents Iranian fans from attending matches in the U.S., though exemptions are expected for the teams.

FIFA’s Commitment to the Tournament

FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, emphasized that the World Cup will proceed as planned, calling it “too big” to be postponed due to the Iran war. “The World Cup will go on obviously,” Schirgi said, “and we hope that everyone who has qualified can take part.”

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