Iran has officially announced its withdrawal from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the death of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during joint military strikes by the United States and Israel.
The decision, confirmed on March 11, 2026, marks the first time in the modern era that a qualified nation has boycotted the tournament after the final draw.Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali stated that Iran cannot participate in a tournament hosted by a "corrupt government" responsible for the assassination of their leader.
Officials argued that the safety of Iranian citizens and players cannot be guaranteed in the United States, where all of Iran's Group G matches were scheduled to take place.
The withdrawal comes as the Middle East conflict escalates, with Iran launching retaliatory strikes against U.S. military bases in the region.
Despite the boycott, FIFA President Gianni Infantino noted that U.S. President Donald Trump had previously guaranteed that the Iranian team would be "welcome" to compete.
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