Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says

Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says

The sports minister of Iran has declared that the nation will not take part in this summer’s FIFA World Cup, regardless of circumstances. This comes amid ongoing tensions following recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran, which have prompted retaliatory strikes from Tehran on American interests across the Middle East.

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” stated Ahmad Donyamali, the Iranian sports minister, during a televised address.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino had earlier expressed optimism, meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss preparations for the tournament. During the session, Trump assured that Iran would be welcomed to compete, despite the geopolitical climate.

“President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” said Infantino in an Instagram post, emphasizing the unifying role of football.

Iran’s football federation head, Mehdi Taj, questioned the rationale behind participation, stating, “Which rational person would send the national team into such a situation?” The men’s squad is set to face New Zealand and Belgium in the U.S., with matches scheduled for June.

Trump, who was awarded FIFA’s first peace prize last year, previously claimed indifference toward Iran’s involvement. “I really don’t care” if the team joins, he said, reflecting a stance at odds with the minister’s firm opposition.

Meanwhile, six members of Iran’s women’s football team were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem during a match. The team had competed in the Asian Cup, and one player has since chosen to return to Iran.

A travel ban by Trump prevents Iranian fans from attending games in the U.S., though teams may receive exemptions for participation. FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, added that the World Cup remains unaffected by global unrest, stating, “The World Cup will go on obviously. It’s too big to be postponed, and we hope everyone qualified can take part.”

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