Iran will not play at the World Cup, the nation's sports minister has confirmed amid the ongoing conflict with host country the United States. When asked about Iran's participation at the World Cup by Politico last week, US President Trump replied: 'I really don't care'. 'Since this corrupt government assassinated our leader, we have no conditions under which we can participate in the World Cup,' Ahmad Donyamal said in a television interview on Wednesday via RTE. 'We also spoke about the current situation in Iran, and the fact that the Iranian team has qualified to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026. 'During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.

Source: Daily Mail March 11, 2026 17:00 UTC