Iran Still Expected to Play at 2026 World Cup Despite Security Concerns

The men’s national team of Iran is still expected to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite growing security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that the Iranian team’s “life and safety” could be at risk if they travel to the tournament, raising questions about whether the country would eventually participate.

The warning follows heightened tensions after a war triggered by joint strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets on February 28.

However, officials from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) say there has been no official indication that Iran plans to withdraw from the competition.

Speaking to reporters at the AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, the confederation’s General Secretary, Windsor Paul John, said Iran is still scheduled to take part.

According to him, the AFC is closely monitoring the situation but has not received any official communication suggesting the team will pull out.

“Iran is a top team, and we hope they will resolve their issues and be able to participate in the World Cup,” he said.

Meanwhile, Trump had earlier stated on his social media platform, Truth Social, that the Iranian team would be welcome at the tournament but hinted that attending could place them at risk.

In a separate development, issues have also emerged involving members of Iran’s women’s national football delegation who travelled to Australia for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Seven members of the delegation reportedly sought asylum in Australia after being labelled “traitors” at home for refusing to sing the national anthem during the competition.

However, the captain of the Iranian women’s team later withdrew her asylum request, leaving only two members of the group who are still planning to remain in Australia.

Reports from a former Iranian player and a Persian-language television channel outside the country claimed some players were pressured to reverse their asylum bids following alleged threats against their families.

Iranian authorities, however, have accused Australia of encouraging the players to stay.

According to AFC officials, the players who plan to return are currently staying in a hotel in Kuala Lumpur while waiting for their onward travel back to Iran.

Responding to the situation, Windsor said the AFC would respect whatever decision the players make regarding their future.

“It’s their decision and we will support that,” he stated.