Irans World Cup 2026 participation uncertain due to ongoing conflict and US policy shift

US President Donald Trump’s comments on Iran’s participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 have raised concerns about the country’s potential exclusion from the tournament. The global sporting event is scheduled to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19.

Iran is among the 48 nations expected to participate in the tournament, with officials from the Iranian football federation and FIFA being noncommittal on the country’s participation. Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), stated that the recent attacks on Iran by the US and Israel have made it difficult for the country to look forward to the World Cup.

Simon Chadwick, a professor of Afro-Eurasian sport at the Emlyon Business School in Shanghai, believes that Iran’s participation in the tournament is uncertain due to the ongoing conflict. He notes that the US may not allow Iranian players, officials, and staff to enter the country, making it unlikely for them to participate.

Chadwick also highlights the potential financial consequences of Iran’s withdrawal from the tournament. The impact of such a decision would not only be political but also financial, as the country would likely incur significant losses due to the commercial nature of the event.

Iran’s matches are scheduled to take place on the US West Coast, which may contribute to the uncertainty surrounding their participation. A leading expert in sports and geopolitics emphasizes that Iran will need to carefully consider its options before making a decision about their involvement in the tournament.

Source: Al Jazeera