Iran threatens to withdraw from the 2026 World Cup following US and Israeli airstrikes that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom announces the organization will monitor developments closely.
Escalating Conflict in the Middle East
The US and Israel initiate major combat operations across Iran, prompting Tehran to launch retaliatory strikes targeting US bases in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Kuwait, as well as sites in Israel. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, faces uncertainty as Iran, drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, reconsiders participation.
Iranian Football Federation’s Stance
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, expresses serious doubts about competing. Speaking on Tehran television, he states: “With what happened today and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the cup.” Taj adds: “But the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that.”
FIFA’s Position
Mattias Grafstrom addresses the situation during the International Football Association Board’s annual general meeting in Cardiff, Wales. He remarks: “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 emphasizes: “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.”
UK Prime Minister Responds
Britain declines involvement in the strikes, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirms British planes operate in the Middle East. He declares: “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.”
