Will Iran Play at the 2026 World Cup Amid Conflict?

Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is now uncertain following escalating military conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), said the federation does not know whether the national team will be able to play its scheduled matches in the United States.

Iran have been drawn in Group G and are due to face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in matches set to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.

The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

Taj indicated that the current security situation has cast doubt over Iran’s outlook for the competition. FIFA has not publicly confirmed any change to Iran’s participation status.

The uncertainty comes as conflict in the region has already disrupted sporting events. An England Lions cricket match in Abu Dhabi was cancelled, England women delayed travel plans to the UAE, and football competitions in Qatar were suspended. The Asian Football Confederation has also postponed several club fixtures.