Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says
Iran’s Sports Minister Vows Against World Cup Participation Amid Tensions
Iran’s sports minister has declared that the country will not take part in the upcoming World Cup, regardless of circumstances. The minister, Ahmad Donyamali, made the statement during a press appearance, emphasizing the stance of Iran’s leadership.
Conflict Escalates Participation Concerns
The decision to exclude Iran from the tournament has sparked debate following recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets. Tehran responded with attacks on American facilities and allies across the Middle East, raising questions about the safety of the team’s involvement.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in no way can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali asserted.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously expressed optimism about Iran’s participation, stating that he met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss preparations for the event. During the meeting, Infantino was assured that Iran would be welcome to compete, despite ongoing tensions.
The Iranian men’s national team is set to face New Zealand in the United States during June, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt. However, Trump’s comments on the matter suggest a more indifferent attitude toward Iran’s involvement. Last week, he remarked, “I really don’t care” if the team takes part, highlighting a potential shift in U.S. policy.
In a recent Instagram post, Infantino reiterated Trump’s support, noting, “President Trump emphasized that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”
Infantino added, “We all need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever. I sincerely thank the President of the United States for his support, which underscores how football unites nations.”
Women’s Team Faces Safety Challenges
Meanwhile, the Iranian women’s football squad encountered logistical hurdles after several members were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia. The team had been in the country for the Asian Cup, and fears arose that they might be targeted for not singing Iran’s national anthem prior to a match. One player has since chosen to return to Iran, while others remain in Australia.
A travel ban imposed by Trump limits Iranian fans’ ability to attend games in the U.S. this summer, yet teams are expected to receive exemptions for participation. FIFA’s World Cup chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, confirmed that the tournament will proceed as planned, stating, “The World Cup is too big to be postponed due to global turmoil caused by the Iran war. We hope all qualified teams can compete.”
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