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

The Iranian sports minister has made it clear that the nation will not take part in this year’s FIFA World Cup under any conditions. His statement comes amid ongoing tensions following recent military strikes by US and Israeli forces against Iran, which led to retaliatory actions by Tehran targeting American assets and allies in the region.

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” said Ahmad Donyamali, the country’s sports minister, in a televised address.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently met with US President Donald Trump to discuss the tournament’s preparations, securing assurances that Iran would be invited to compete in the World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, Iran’s football federation head, Mehdi Taj, questioned the logic of sending the national team into such a volatile situation, asking, “Which rational person would send the national team into such a situation?”

The Iranian men’s team is set to face New Zealand in June, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt in the US. Despite these plans, the travel ban imposed by Trump has prevented Iranian fans from attending games in America this summer, though exemptions are being considered for the teams.

Women’s Team Faces Visa Controversy

Earlier this week, six members of the Iranian women’s football squad—five players and one staff member—were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after fears they might be in danger for not singing the national anthem before a match. They had been in Australia for the Asian Cup, and one player has since chosen to return to Iran.

Infantino also reiterated on social media that Trump had reaffirmed Iran’s welcome in the tournament, emphasizing, “The World Cup will go on obviously. It is too big to be postponed due to global turmoil caused by the Iran war.” He added, “Football Unites the World,” highlighting the event’s role in fostering unity during challenging times.