Overview
- Sports minister Ahmad Donyamali said on state television that Iran cannot participate, citing U.S.-Israeli airstrikes that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and ongoing security concerns.
- FIFA has not confirmed an official withdrawal, and Iran’s Group G fixtures were set for Los Angeles and Seattle against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt.
- Infantino said he met President Trump, who reiterated that Iran’s team would be welcome to enter the U.S. for the tournament.
- FIFA regulations allow fines of at least 250,000 Swiss francs and potential replacement or other sanctions if a qualified team withdraws more than 30 days before kickoff.
- Reporting points to Iraq or the United Arab Emirates as the most likely replacements if Iran pulls out, though scheduling and travel complications remain.