Iranian national football team players pose for a photo ahead of a friendly match between Russia and Iran at Volgograd Arena in Volgograd, Russia, on October 10, 2025. Photo: VCG

Iran's participation to the upcoming FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico this summer, is hanging under a heavy cloud amid escalating military tensions after the joint US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. 

The attacks, which began on Saturday and resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several other high-ranking officials, have prompted discussions about whether the Iranian national team can safely compete, particularly with group-stage matches scheduled on US soil.

Iran secured its spot in the tournament through the Asian Football Confederation qualifiers, topping Group A in the third round with 23 points, ahead of Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates. 

Drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt, Iran is slated to play two matches at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21, followed by a third against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The team had planned to base its training camp in Tucson, Arizona.

FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom was quoted by ESPN stating that the FIFA will "monitor developments" in Iran ahead of the tournament, emphasizing a focus on "everybody participating" while prioritizing safety. 

No official decision has been announced regarding Iran's status, and neither FIFA nor the Iranian Football Federation has confirmed any withdrawal.

Spanish sports media Marca reported that Iranian authorities are considering pulling out, citing player safety and the prioritization of human life over football amid the conflict. 

Iran's domestic football league has already been suspended in response to the crisis.

Should Iran withdraw before the tournament begins, FIFA regulations allow for replacement by a nominated alternate, typically the highest-ranked non-qualified team from the same confederation or a runner-up from qualifiers. 

Potential replacements from the AFC include Iraq, which finished ninth in qualifiers and is positioned for intercontinental playoffs, or the United Arab Emirates. 

Global Times