Uncertainty Over Iran's World Cup Participation
The president of Iran’s football federation has expressed uncertainty regarding the national team's ability to participate in matches held in the United States following recent US and Israeli military actions against Iran.
“What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope,”Mehdi Taj stated in an interview with the sports portal Varzesh3, amid escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel.
Iran has been drawn into Group G for the FIFA World Cup and is scheduled to play matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium on 15 and 21 June respectively, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.
The tournament is being hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. It is notable that Iranian fans were already banned from entering the US under the initial travel restrictions imposed during the Donald Trump administration.
FIFA has not yet responded to inquiries regarding Iran’s current status in the World Cup amid the ongoing conflict.
England Lions Match Cancelled Due to Regional Hostilities
In related developments, the England Lions’ second one-day cricket match against Pakistan Shaheens, scheduled for Sunday in Abu Dhabi, has been cancelled due to military attacks in the region. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement confirming the cancellation and the delay of the England women’s training camp trip to the United Arab Emirates.
Abu Dhabi has been affected by the regional conflict following US and Israeli military actions.
“The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority. We are in contact with security experts and the government in relation to current events in the Middle East, and are following official advice. Tomorrow’s second 50-over game between England men’s Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi will no longer go ahead and we are delaying the departure of England Women for their proposed trip to Abu Dhabi next week.
We will continue to monitor and assess the situation and official advice in relation to the future of these trips. England Men will travel to Mumbai for the ICC men’s T20 World Cup semi-final as planned.”
Jonny Bairstow, serving in a coaching role with the Lions, posted on X expressing concern about being stranded amid the conflict, responding to a post by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer with the message:
“Can you get us home???”
Football Suspended in Qatar Amid Conflict
All football activities in Qatar have been suspended following attacks on the country. The Qatar Football Association announced the postponement of all tournaments, competitions, and matches effective immediately until further notice.
“The new dates for the resumption of competitions will be announced in due course,”the association stated.
Asian Football Confederation Postpones Matches
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has also postponed several AFC Champions League fixtures, including the last-16 first leg between Shabab Al-Ahli Club and Iranian side Tractor, as well as Al-Duhail’s match against Saudi Arabian team Al-Ahli. Additionally, AFC Champions League Two and AFC Challenge League matches have been delayed.
The AFC has indicated it is closely monitoring the situation’s impact on football activities and emphasized that the welfare, safety, and security of players, coaches, officials, and fans remain its highest priority.
“In this regard, we are in close and regular contact with the IR Iran women’s national team and officials in Gold Coast, and are offering our full support and assistance.”
