Iran’s involvement in the 2026 World Cup has been thrown into uncertainty following escalating military conflict involving the United States and Israel.
The president of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, Mehdi Taj, acknowledged the growing concerns during an address on state television, admitting that the national team’s participation is no longer guaranteed.
Domestic disruption has already followed the unrest, with the Persian Gulf Pro League suspended indefinitely. However, the wider implications stretch beyond local football, casting a shadow over Iran’s place at next year’s global showpiece.
With the 2026 tournament set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, scheduling presents a further complication. All three of Iran’s group-stage fixtures are slated to be played on American soil, intensifying diplomatic and security concerns.
“The ongoing military conflict with Israel and the United States has created significant uncertainty regarding Iran’s participation in the World Cup,” Taj said. “Considering recent developments and the attacks by the United States, participation is now uncertain. The final decision will rest with the country’s sporting authorities.”
Under the current schedule, Iran are due to open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June. They are then set to face Belgium at the same venue on 21 June, before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.
