Iran threatens to pull out of FIFA World Cup 2026 amid US-Iran-Israel conflict, new concerns raise for the tournament

The Iran Football Federation has reportedly threatened to withdraw from the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The warning comes as tensions rise in West Asia due to the ongoing political conflict involving the United States, Iran, and Israel. Notably, Iran has already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The situation has now raised fresh doubts over Iran’s participation in the global football event after the political turmoil in the country.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of their group-stage matches on American soil. Their fixtures include games against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium on June 21 in the same city, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The growing political tension has cast uncertainty over these matches if Iran pulls out of the tournament. Iran’s football authorities have said that a final decision on their participation will depend on senior sports officials.

Iran Football Federation casts doubt over participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026

The president of the Iran Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, addressed the issue on Iranian public television in Tehran. He spoke about the ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States and its impact on sports activities.

Taj said that after the recent attack by the United States on their leader, it is difficult to think about looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup. He explained that the situation has created serious concerns, but the final call on participation will be made by the country’s top sports authorities.

The federation has also suspended the domestic football league until further notice. This decision affects several foreign players currently playing in Iran. Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Antonio Adan, Spanish-Moroccan forward Munir, and ex-Real Valladolid player Ivan Sanchez are among those impacted. Munir and Adan play for Esteghlal F.C., while Sanchez represents Sepahan S.C.. Reports say Adan has returned to Madrid, while the other two players are attempting to leave Iran by road.

Meanwhile, security concerns have also surfaced in Mexico. Violence broke out in Guadalajara after a military operation killed cartel leader “El Mencho.” Vehicles were burned, and supermarkets were vandalised. Public transport was temporarily suspended. The unrest adds another challenge for FIFA as preparations continue for the 2026 tournament.





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