Iran May Withdraw from 2026 World Cup Amid US and Israel Conflict

Iran's national team, which qualified for the 2026 World Cup, may withdraw from the tournament due to escalating tensions with the US and Israel, according to the country's football federation chief Mehdi Toj.

"Given today's events and the US attack, it's difficult for us to look forward to the World Cup with hope. In any case, this issue must be decided by sports leaders," Toj said.

Iran is set to play all its group stage matches in the United States, against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. They may also face the US in the Round of 16, which could create additional problems for FIFA.

Earlier, FIFA's chief secretary said he was following the developments and had been reading about the situation in Iran.