Overview
- Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said Iran will not participate, citing the war conditions following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Feb. 28 that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino said President Donald Trump assured Iran would be welcome to compete in the United States if it chose to play.
- FIFA has not issued a final ruling, with competition regulations outlining fines of 250,000–500,000 Swiss francs and reimbursement of FIFA funds for a team that withdraws, plus potential further disciplinary measures.
- Iran had been drawn in Group G to face Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt, with all three matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.
- Australia granted humanitarian visas to five Iran women’s national team players and moved them to a secure location; some outlets reported six, as rights groups and FIFPro pressed for the players’ safety and Trump urged protection, offering U.S. reception if needed.