The head of Iran's Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, has raised serious doubts about Iran participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Team Melli's participation has been uncertain ever since the US and Israel started military strikes on Iran. Taj's remarks came on the same day that five players from Iran's women's team claimed asylum in Australia during the Women's Asian Cup. “How could one be optimistic about the World Cup that is supposed to be held in America?” AFP quoted Taj as asking. ‘Forced to stay in Australia’ Iran's Football Federation chief claims that the five women players are not defectors.

Source: Mint March 11, 2026 09:48 UTC