This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. Iran may become the next nation to boycott a World Cup for political reasons, following the outbreak of conflict with the U.S. and Israel. The two countries launched a military operation against the Persians early Saturday, with large-scale airstrikes across much of the country. Iran, in turn, responded with missile and drone attacks on nearly all neighboring countries hosting Western military bases. The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the airstrikes, raising questions about the country's participation in the upcoming World Cup. The Iranian federation, whose members were already barred from attending the draw in December, may boycott the competition following the escalation of the conflict. The United States is hosting the tournament along with Canada and Mexico, from June 11 to July 19. Notably, all three group stage matches of the 2026 World Cup will take place on American soil. Iran has been drawn in Group G and has matches scheduled in Los Angeles – where they will face New Zealand and Belgium on June 15 and 21, respectively – before playing against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Despite finishing first in their group in the Asian qualifiers, information coming from Iran after the recent attack suggests that the country is considering withdrawal. This would pose a serious problem for FIFA leadership, especially considering that, so far, no qualified nation has boycotted a World Cup for political reasons. However, this does not mean that countries have not withdrawn from qualifiers for political reasons or even from the tournament itself for other reasons. Amid rumors that Iran may boycott the 2026 edition, here are some past instances where countries withdrew from World Cups.
World Cup Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains central to this story.
World Cup Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains central to this story.
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