Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says
Iran’s Sports Minister Declares Team Won’t Compete in World Cup
The head of Iran’s sports ministry has asserted that the nation will not participate in the upcoming World Cup under any circumstances, despite recent assurances from FIFA officials.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” stated Ahmad Donyamali, Iran’s sports minister, during a broadcast on state television.
Tensions between Iran and US-Israeli forces have cast doubt on the team’s involvement. Following attacks on Iranian targets, Tehran launched strikes on American interests across the Middle East, prompting concerns about the safety of the national squad.
Earlier this week, FIFA President Gianni Infantino met with US President Donald Trump to address the status of World Cup preparations. During the discussion, Infantino was told Iran would be allowed to compete in the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Infantino later shared on Instagram that Trump emphasized the Iranian team’s welcome participation. “President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, invited to compete in the United States,” he noted, highlighting football’s role in uniting nations amid global challenges.
Controversy Over Women’s Team Visa Grants
Additional controversy arose when six members of the Iranian women’s football squad—five players and one staff member—were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia. This decision came after fears they might face danger for not singing the national anthem during a match at the Asian Cup.
One player has since opted to return to Iran, while others remain in the country. Meanwhile, a travel ban imposed by Trump restricts Iranian fans from attending the World Cup in the US this summer, though exemptions are planned for the teams.
FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, confirmed the tournament will proceed as scheduled. “The World Cup is too significant to be postponed, and we hope all qualified teams can take part,” he said, underscoring the event’s global importance despite regional unrest.
