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Iran Declines 2026 World Cup Invitation Amid Security Concerns

3/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

United States President Donald Trump said Iran's soccer team is welcome to participate in 2026 FIFA World Cup but should refrain for safety reasons.
Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said Iran would not attend, citing assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid United States–Israeli military actions.
2026 World Cup runs June 11–July 19 across United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran set to play in Los Angeles and Seattle.

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Story summary

United States President Donald Trump said Iran's soccer team is welcome to participate in 2026 FIFA World Cup but should refrain for safety reasons.
Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said Iran would not attend, citing assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid United States–Israeli military actions.
2026 World Cup runs June 11–July 19 across United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran set to play in Los Angeles and Seattle.