Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Doyanmali, has said that it would not be prudent for the country to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup amid the ongoing war.

According to him, the missile attacks by the United States and Israel, which claimed the life of Iran’s Supreme Leader and other relatives, make it complicated for the nation to take part in the tournament.

He also cited the deaths of numerous Iranians who were not involved in violent acts but still suffered fatalities.

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“Given that this corrupt government has murdered our leader, there are no conditions under which we can participate in the World Cup. Two wars have been imposed on us in eight or nine months, and several thousand of our citizens have been killed. Therefore, we have no chance of participating in this way,” he said as reported by Swedish outlet Expressen.

Meanwhile, Iran has qualified for the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026.

They are set to face the winner between Bolivia and Suriname in the final to determine their spot, with all matches to be played in Mexico.

Amid the controversy, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that US President Donald Trump will welcome Iran to the tournament despite the tensions and will ensure the squad’s safety should they decide to participate.

SB/JE

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