The Iranian colours are illuminated on the screen during the World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. Photo: GettyIran’s football chief has cast doubt over the national team’s participation in this summer’s World Cup following the US and Israeli attacks on the country. According to multiple outlets, Iran football federation president Mehdi Taj told sports news portal Varzesh3: “What is certain is that after these attacks, it’s hard to look at the World Cup with hope.”The World Cup takes place across the US, Canada and Mexico in June and July. Iran had previously relented on a threat to boycott the World Cup draw as tensions previously intensified with the US. “We had the finals draw in Washington DC, in which all teams participated, and our focus is on a safe World Cup with all the teams participating,” Grafstrom said.

Source: Irish Independent March 02, 2026 10:20 UTC