Iran conditions 2026 World Cup participation on “security guarantees” in US

TEHRAN, April 21 (YPA) – Iranian authorities have conditioned the national team’s participation in the 2026 World Cup on receiving “full security guarantees” for its delegation within the United States.

Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Dunyamali, emphasized that the final decision rests with the government and the Supreme National Security Council, noting that political tensions could hinder their presence at the tournament.

This development follows FIFA’s rejection of an Iranian proposal to move the team’s matches to Mexico. Iran is drawn into Group G alongside Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand, with its matches scheduled to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.