Iran Will Not Compete in World Cup, Claims Sports Minister
The Iranian sports minister has declared that the country will not participate in this year’s World Cup, regardless of the circumstances. This statement comes amid ongoing tensions following recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran, which prompted retaliatory strikes by Tehran on American targets in the region.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in no way can we take part in the World Cup,” said Ahmad Donyamali, the minister, during a televised address.
Iran’s football federation head, Mehdi Taj, echoed concerns, questioning, “Which rational individual would send the national squad into such a volatile situation?”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the tournament’s readiness, assured that Iran would be invited to compete. The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, is set to feature Iran’s men’s team in June, with matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
Trump, who received FIFA’s first peace award last year, has expressed support for Iran’s inclusion, stating on Instagram, “President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” according to Infantino.
The situation gained attention when six members of Iran’s women’s football team were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem during a game. This decision followed fears they might face danger. One player later chose to return to Iran.
A travel restriction imposed by Trump prevents Iranian fans from attending the U.S. games this summer, though exceptions are expected for the teams. FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, emphasized the tournament’s importance, noting, “The World Cup will go on obviously, right? It is too significant to be delayed due to global unrest.”
Follow the latest developments on the Iran conflict and its impact on international sports events.
