Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun will not travel to the 2026 World Cup, missing the preliminary list compiled by coach Amir Ghalenoei. The 31‑year‑old, who plies his trade at Shabab Al‑Ahli in the UAE, has been sidelined after a photo with Emirati ruler Mohammed bin Rashid sparked accusations of disloyalty to Tehran.

Azmoun has netted 57 goals in 91 caps, making his exclusion a significant blow to Iran's attacking options. The decision arrives as the nation navigates heightened tensions with the United States and Israel, and as Iranian facilities in the UAE have been targeted in retaliation. Veteran forwards Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh replace him in a squad that will base itself in Mexico ahead of the tournament.

Iran's schedule features Los Angeles fixtures against New Zealand (15 June) and Belgium (21 June), followed by a Seattle clash with Egypt (26 June). With the US, Canada and Mexico co‑hosting the competition, the team hopes its revised lineup can compensate for Azmoun's absence and deliver results on North American soil.