The president of the Iranian Football Federation has suggested Iran may not take part in the upcoming FIFA World Cup following recent military strikes involving the United States and Israel.
Mehdi Taj told Spanish newspaper Marca that while no official withdrawal has been submitted, participation now appears unlikely.
“With what happened on Saturday and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the World Cup,” Taj said. “But the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that.”
His comments come amid heightened tensions after reported attacks on Iranian targets. The situation has cast uncertainty over several aspects of public life in Iran, including sport.
Iran have been regular participants at recent World Cups and are one of Asia’s strongest footballing nations. Any decision to withdraw would mark a significant development for both the tournament and Iranian football, depriving players and supporters of a rare opportunity to compete on the global stage.
No official statement has yet been issued confirming withdrawal, and any final decision is expected to involve both football authorities and government officials.
Should Iran officially withdraw?
The question is complex and extends beyond football. Participation in major tournaments can serve as a unifying force and a symbol of normalcy during times of crisis. At the same time, security, logistics and player welfare would be central considerations.
Ultimately, the decision will likely depend on safety assessments, diplomatic developments and guidance from global governing body FIFA. For now, uncertainty surrounds Iran’s place at the World Cup, as events off the pitch continue to shape the sporting landscape.
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