Iran has boycotted the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, citing the killing of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, who disclosed this on Wednesday said the country could not participate in a tournament partly hosted by the United States, which it accuses of being responsible for the assassination of its Supreme Leader.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Donyamali said.
Iran had previously qualified for the tournament and was expected to feature in matches scheduled to be played in several host cities, including Los Angeles.
FIFA has not issued an official response to Iran’s announcement.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had earlier stated on social media that U.S. President Donald Trump assured him that the Iranian national team would be safe to compete in the United States during the tournament.