2026 World Cup: Iran’s participation in doubt after bombing, Khamenei’s death
Sport 2026 World Cup: Iran’s participation in doubt after bombing, Khamenei’s death Published on March 2, 2026 By Ifreke Inyang Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup is now in question after recent attacks. The country’s soccer federation president, Mehdi Taj, has said they may not be able to take part in the tournament this summer. This comes after the US and Israel carried out bombing raids on Iran. Taj told Varzesh3, “It’s clear that after this attack, we can’t really look forward to the World Cup with hope.” The attacks by the US and Israel continued for a second day on Sunday. On the first day, the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the attacks. Iran was set to play in Group G at the World Cup, along with Egypt, New Zealand, and Belgium. The tournament will be held in the US, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. Don't Miss EPL: Arsenal will have 10 weeks of pain – Gary Neville makes title prediction You may like War: 48 Iran leaders killed in US-Israeli operation – Trump US central command confirms death of troops in Iran conflict Three US troops killed as Iran escalates retaliation after Khamenei’s death War: Former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad killed in US-Israel strike Pope Leo XIV urges peace amid US, Israel strikes on Iran China condemns killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, calls for end to military action