The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced its withdrawal from the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Ahmad Doyanmali, the Iranian Minister of Sports, justified this decision due to the ongoing armed conflict with the United States and Israel, following the assassination of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Doyanmali stated that Iran's participation in the World Cup under these circumstances was unthinkable. He expressed regret that the co-hosting of the event had not been withdrawn from the United States, given the tensions.
Iran was placed in Group G, where they were scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. FIFA must now designate another nation to replace Iran. According to FIFA regulations, a country from the same confederation should be selected.
Several nations could potentially replace Iran. Iraq and the United Arab Emirates are often cited as possible replacements. Iraq is set to face the winner of the Bolivia-Suriname match for a spot at the World Cup. If Iraq qualifies, the United Arab Emirates could participate in the intercontinental play-offs.
Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, had met with U.S. President Donald Trump and stated that the Iranian team was welcome to the tournament. However, the Iranian Sports Minister made it clear that the current situation made participation impossible.
FIFA has not yet made an official announcement regarding Iran's replacement. Heimo Schirgi, FIFA's chief operating officer, stated that the World Cup would proceed as planned and that the organization was closely monitoring the situation.
Iran's withdrawal from the World Cup is an unprecedented event, as no qualified nation has ever boycotted the tournament for political reasons. FIFA must now act quickly to find a replacement to minimize disruptions to the tournament.
FIFA could fine Iran at least 250,000 Swiss francs (approximately $320,800 USD) for its late withdrawal. Additional disciplinary sanctions could include exclusion from future FIFA competitions.
