Iran Rules Out FIFA World Cup After US ‘Assassination’ Claim, Sports Minister Says
Iran’s sports minister Ahmad Donyamali has announced that the country will not take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He cited the United States’ alleged killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and ongoing attacks by the US and Israel as reasons for Iran’s withdrawal. Donyamali told state television that Iran has endured waves of missiles and drones, resulting in thousands of casualties. He said these conditions make it impossible for the national team to prepare or compete safely. Football Federation president Mehdi Taj also expressed doubts about sending a squad to the tournament. Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino noted that US President Donald Trump has welcomed Iran’s participation, even as tensions persist ahead of the co-hosted event in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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