WANA (Apr 14) – Recent remarks by Ahmad Donyamali, Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, have once again pushed speculation about the country’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup back into the headlines. The tournament is set to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

 

Donyamali emphasized that Iran’s participation will depend on ensuring the safety of its athletes and a broader assessment of the country’s overall conditions. He clarified that the final decision rests with the government, while the Ministry of Sports is responsible only for preparing the team and handling logistical and support requirements.

 

“The more normal the conditions are, the higher the likelihood of participation,” he noted, adding that in the event of escalating tensions, decisions will be made based on prevailing necessities.

 

These comments come despite the fact that Iran had already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup following a 2–2 draw against Uzbekistan last year. However, even at that time, political tensions and U.S. visa restrictions for Iranian citizens had raised concerns about the full participation of Iran’s delegation, including both team members and supporters.

 

The concerns deepened after reports emerged that visas were not issued to parts of the Iranian delegation for the World Cup draw ceremony—fueling fears of similar obstacles for players, coaching staff, and accompanying officials.

Iran national football team takes the field in tribute to Minab schoolchildren killed in airstrikes. Social media / WANA News Agency

Iran national football team takes the field in tribute to Minab schoolchildren killed in airstrikes. Social media / WANA News Agency

Subsequent developments have further complicated the situation. Recent military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28 led to a roughly 40-day confrontation, which is now under a temporary ceasefire. This escalation has intensified the already fragile political climate.

 

As a result, discussions about a potential withdrawal of Iran from the World Cup—particularly given that one of the host nations is a party to the conflict—have gained traction in media circles.

 

At the same time, rumors have circulated about the possibility of FIFA excluding Iran and replacing it with another team, though no official confirmation has been issued.

 

Notably, FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended a friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica and met with members of the Iranian national team, offering reassuring signals about Iran’s participation.

 

Nevertheless, a complex mix of political, security, and diplomatic factors has left Iran’s presence at the 2026 World Cup uncertain. Despite having secured qualification on the pitch, the final decision appears increasingly tied to developments beyond it.