Iran’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is facing fresh uncertainty following escalating tensions involving the United States and Israel, according to comments from Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Iran had already qualified for the competition and was grouped with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt in Group G, with games set for Los Angeles and Seattle. Taj, nevertheless, claimed that recent army attacks and the general security environment have thrown preparations for the tournament into doubt.
Although a final decision lies with national sports officials, he pointed out that participation is becoming increasingly challenging under the present circumstances. Tensions also caused the permanent suspension of Iran’s domestic league.
The News Chronicle understands that travel restrictions might make things even harder. Among nations allegedly affected by an expanded policy announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, some authorities have previously been denied visas for FIFA events.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom said the organization is monitoring developments and remains in communication with the event co-hosts, the United States, Mexico, and Canada. He underlined that giving every eligible team safe participation top priority is still.
For the time being, no official withdrawal has been declared, yet Iran’s World Cup run remains uncertain.
