The men’s national football team of Iran is still expected to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to officials of the Asian Football Confederation.
The update comes despite growing concerns about the country’s involvement in the tournament following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking at a press conference at the AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, the confederation’s general secretary Windsor Paul John said there has been no official indication that Iran will withdraw from the competition.
“As far as we know, Iran is playing,” he said.
“We are monitoring whether they are playing or not, but at the moment they are. There is no official information that they are not playing.”
The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the Iranian team’s “life and safety” could be at risk if they attend the tournament, citing the ongoing war triggered by U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28.
Despite the concerns, the AFC expressed hope that Iran would participate in the global showpiece.
“We want Iran to play because they are a top team. So we hope they will solve their issues and be able to participate in the World Cup,” Windsor said.
Women’s Team Asylum Controversy
Meanwhile, controversy has also surrounded members of Iran’s women’s national football delegation who were competing in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia.
Seven members of the delegation had reportedly sought asylum after being labelled “traitors” at home for refusing to sing the national anthem.
However, the captain of the team has since withdrawn her asylum request, leaving only two members of the delegation expected to remain in Australia.
Reports from a former Iranian player and a Persian-language television station claimed some of the players faced pressure to reverse their decision through threats against their families.
Iranian authorities, however, accused Australia of pressuring the players to remain in the country.
The players returning to Iran were reported to be staying at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur while awaiting onward travel.
Asked about their situation, Windsor said the AFC was waiting for the team to decide when they intend to leave.
“It’s their decision and we will support that,” he said.
