Iran has reportedly threatened to withdraw from this summer’s World Cup following US and Israeli airstrikes that killed the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The attacks, part of a joint military operation on Saturday, targeted major Iranian cities, including the capital, Tehran, amid weeks of escalating tension.
In response to the strikes, Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, expressed serious doubts about the nation’s participation in the upcoming tournament. Speaking on the Iranian TV network Tehran, as reported by Marca, he said:
“With what happened today and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the cup.”
He added: “But the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that.”
If Iran chooses to participate, they could potentially face the United States in Dallas on July 3, provided both teams finish second in their respective groups.
This uncertainty comes just 107 days before Iran is scheduled to kick off its World Cup campaign against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
FIFA officials are reportedly scrambling to manage the situation ahead of the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. At an IFAB meeting in Wales on Saturday, FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom said:
“I read the news the same way you did this morning. We had a meeting today, and it would be premature to comment on that in detail. But of course, we will monitor developments around all issues worldwide. We had a final draw in Washington where all teams participated, and our focus remains on hosting a safe World Cup with everyone participating.”
Iran secured qualification for a fourth consecutive World Cup by topping Group A in Asian qualifying, establishing themselves as one of the strongest teams in the AFC.
They are currently drawn into Group G, scheduled to face Belgium and New Zealand in Los Angeles, with their final group-stage match against Egypt set for Seattle.
