- The Iran national football team has called for the USA to be "excluded" from the 2026 World Cup.
- This follows a statement from Donald Trump, who claimed it would not be "appropriate" for Iran to participate, citing concerns for their "life and safety".
- The controversy arises amidst recent military strikes between the US/Israel and Iran, which resulted in the death of Iran's supreme leader.
- Despite the national team's public stance, Iran's sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, has indicated that the country will not participate in the tournament due to the "corrupt regime" and recent conflicts.
- No official decision has been made regarding Iran's withdrawal, with FIFA regulations allowing the governing body to replace a team at its discretion.
IN FULL
