Iran will not participate in the World Cup: Sports Minister

This time, the Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donjamali has officially announced the matter. He stressed that it is not possible for the national team to play in the United States. A report by Faz said that Iran will participate in the World Cup - despite US President Donald Trump's assurances, the country has decided not to play in the World Cup.

Iran's Sports Minister said, this corrupt (US) government has killed our leader. Therefore, we have no intention of participating in the World Cup.

He added, 'In the last eight or nine months, two wars have been imposed on us. Thousands of our citizens have been killed. We have absolutely no chance of participating in the World Cup.

This decision is being seen as a big blow to FIFA. Earlier, after a meeting with the US President at the White House, FIFA President Gianni Infantino wrote on Instagram, Iran's national team is welcome in the World Cup.

It is not yet certain who will play in their place if Iran withdraws. According to FIFA rules, only they have the power to make the final decision on this matter. Article 6.7 of the FIFA regulations states, "If a participating member association withdraws or is excluded from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA shall decide on the matter in its sole discretion and take the necessary measures. FIFA may, if it wishes, offer the opportunity to another organization to participate in place of the organization concerned."

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be held in Canada, the United States and Mexico on June 11.

Source: Goal.com