Iran National Team Withdraws from 2026 Football World Cup, Reports Minister of Sport

TL;DR

Iran's Minister of Sports declared the national football team will not participate in the 2026 World Cup.
The decision is attributed to the 'corrupt government' and 'malicious actions' by the US and Israel, including the death of Ali Jamenei and thousands of citizens.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously met with US President Donald Trump, who assured the Iranian team would be welcome.
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, with Iran set to play its matches in the US.
Withdrawing from the tournament could result in financial penalties and potential disciplinary measures from FIFA, including fines and exclusion from future competitions.

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