Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says
Iran’s Sports Minister Declares No Participation in World Cup
The sports minister of Iran has stated that the country will not take part in this year’s World Cup under any conditions. This declaration comes amid ongoing tensions following recent military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which prompted Tehran to retaliate with attacks on American interests across the Middle East.
Context of the Conflict
The Iranian team’s involvement in the tournament has been uncertain since the escalation of hostilities. State media reported that the minister emphasized Iran’s refusal to participate, citing the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by a “corrupt regime” as the primary reason.
“Under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” said Ahmad Donyamali, Iran’s sports minister, during a televised address.
Earlier this week, FIFA president Gianni Infantino met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the tournament’s preparations. Trump assured Infantino that Iran would be welcomed to compete, despite the ongoing conflict. The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, remains a key event for global unity.
Additional Remarks from Officials
Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s football federation, questioned the rationale behind sending the national team into the current situation. “Which rational person would send the national team into such a scenario?” he remarked, highlighting concerns over the team’s safety.
Iran’s men’s squad is set to play in the U.S. in June, with matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. However, Trump’s travel ban prevents Iranian fans from attending games this summer, though teams may still receive exemptions to participate.
Recent Developments in the Iran War
The situation intensified last week when Trump, who received FIFA’s first peace prize in 2022, claimed he “really doesn’t care” if Iran joins the tournament. Infantino later reiterated Trump’s support on Instagram, stating, “President Trump emphasized that the Iranian team is welcome to compete in the U.S. tournament.”
Separately, six members of the Iranian women’s football team, including five players and one staff member, were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after not singing the national anthem during a match. They were in Australia for the Asian Cup. One player has since returned to Iran.
FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, confirmed that the World Cup will proceed as planned, noting its significance amid global unrest. “The tournament is too big to be postponed,” he said, adding that qualified teams are expected to take part despite the ongoing conflict.
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