Iranwithdraws from 2026 World Cup after leader's assassination

Iran becomes first country to withdraw from 2026 World Cup. Sports minister Ahmad Donyamali states Iran will not participate due to attacks by US and Israel that killed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tournament proceeds in US, Canada, Mexico June-July. Iran scheduled to face New Zealand June 15, Belgium June 21, Egypt June 26 in Los Angeles and Seattle. Donyamali declares "no possibility" of participation: "Since this corrupt government assassinated our leader, we have no conditions under which we can participate." Conflict escalates with Iran attacking US bases; 122 injured in UAE strike. Nigerian evacuation underway.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/11/2026-world-cup-iran-becomes-first-country-to-pull-out/