Iran’s FIFA World Cup participation still not confirmed

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the world is experiencing a number of conflicts. For the past month, the Middle East has found itself in a world of turmoil. As the conflict amongst the USA, Israel, and Iran continues, Iran’s World Cup participation continues to remain questionable.

With just months left for the tournament to begin, Iran’s Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donyamali, has shared an important update on their nation’s potential participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Ever since the conflict started in Feb. 2026, Iran’s World Cup dreams have remained dicey. Gaining qualification in the tournament, Iran is currently scheduled to play all of its games in the USA rather than in the other host countries of Canada or Mexico.

While Trump previously welcomed Iran to take part in the World Cup, his recent threat to the nation of Iran prompted a quick response from Donyamali, who called for FIFA to change their playing location from the USA to either Mexico or Canada (H/T Independent).

“Our request to FIFA to move Iran’s matches from the United States to Mexico remains in place, but we have not yet received a response. If the request is accepted, Iran’s participation in the World Cup will be confirmed. However, FIFA has not issued any response as yet.

As Minister of Sport, and in cooperation with the Iranian Football Federation, we will ensure the national team remains ready for the World Cup. However, the final decision will be taken by the Cabinet. Should their matches be moved, Iran will take part this summer,” he shared.

Ahmad Donyamali says Iran’s FIFA World Cup participation chances in the United States are “very low”

Donyamali, 66, claimed that the chances of Iran travelling to the United States for the World Cup are very low based on the current political situation and the “highly doubtful” security in the country.

“According to the relevant FIFA regulations, security must be guaranteed in the host country. The World Cup is due to kick off soon, and obtaining such guarantees during this period is highly doubtful. Under these circumstances, the likelihood of Iran participating in the World Cup matches to be held in the United States is very low,” Donyamali finished.

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