Iran has officially pulled out of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, prompting FIFA to urgently consider a replacement team.
The decision was confirmed by Iran’s Ministry of Sports on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, which said the national side would not participate because the country is currently dealing with an ongoing military conflict that has also led to the deaths of several senior government figures.
Tehran explains the withdrawal
Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that the country cannot adequately prepare for a global tournament while facing the realities of a full-scale war. He noted that the conflict has persisted for roughly eight to nine months and has resulted in thousands of fatalities.
“Considering that this corrupt regime [the US] has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” the minister told state television.
In light of the ongoing crisis, Iranian authorities believe it would be inappropriate for the national team to take part in a major international competition at this time.
Rising tensions and security concerns
The situation has intensified due to direct military tensions involving Israel and the United States, one of the main hosts of the tournament. During recent airstrikes, Iran reportedly lost its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino had indicated that assurances had been received from Donald Trump that the Iranian delegation would be able to enter the United States safely. However, the escalation of the conflict led Tehran to rule out the possibility of travelling to the host nation.
Possible replacement team
Iran had originally been placed in Group G, where they were scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand during the tournament.
With their withdrawal, one spot in the group is now vacant. FIFA is expected to announce a replacement soon, most likely selecting another team from the Asian Football Confederation.
The World Cup is scheduled to take place from Thursday, June 11 to Sunday, July 19, 2026, with matches staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
If confirmed, this would be the first time in the modern era of the World Cup that a qualified nation has withdrawn from the competition because of an ongoing war affecting participation.
