Iran has threatened to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup after US and Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Middle Eastern nation qualified for the tournament hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt.
Escalating Regional Conflict
The US and Israel initiated major combat operations against Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate with strikes targeting US bases in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait, as well as sites in Israel.
UK Prime Minister’s Statement
Britain did not participate in the airstrikes, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed British planes operate in the Middle East. He stated: “We’ve stepped up protections from British bases and personnel to their highest level. Iran can end this now. They should refrain from further strikes, give up their weapons programme and cease the appalling violence and repression against the Iranian people.”
Iranian Football Federation Response
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, expressed serious doubts about participation during an appearance on Iranian TV network Tehran. 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.” Taj added: “But the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that.”
FIFA Monitors Developments
FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom addressed the situation from the International Football Association Board’s annual general meeting in Cardiff, Wales. He remarked: “I read the news [about Iran] this morning the same way you did. We had a meeting today and it is premature to comment in detail, but we will monitor developments around all issues around the world.”
Grafstrom emphasized: “We had the finals draw in Washington in which all teams participated, and our focus is on a safe World Cup with all the teams participating. We will continue to communicate as we always do with three [host] governments as we always do in any case. Everybody will be safe.”
