Iran will not participate in the 2026 World Cup after the country's sports minister declared that recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel have made participation impossible. Ahmad Donyamali cited the assassination of Iran's leader as the reason for withdrawing from the tournament.

Iran was scheduled to play exhibition matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium before their World Cup group stage match against Egypt in Seattle. The country's participation became uncertain after military strikes began on February 28, with Iranian officials expressing doubts about competing in the tournament.

U.S. President Donald Trump had previously stated he "really didn't care" whether Iran participated, though he later told FIFA that Iran was "welcome" to compete. FIFA's rules regarding withdrawal are unclear, but Iraq or the UAE could potentially replace Iran in Group G if the country officially withdraws from the competition.