War casts doubts on Iran's World Cup matches
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
World Cup meets White House. Photo: Michael Regan/FIFA via Getty Images
Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup — including a scheduled match in Seattle — is in doubt amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
Why it matters: Iran's potential withdrawal adds new complications to Seattle's yearslong World Cup preparations.
- Seattle leaders estimated the matches would generate $929 million in economic activity, draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, and shine a global spotlight on the city — echoing the civic lift of the 1962 World's Fair.
Driving the news: Mehdi Taj, the president of Iran's soccer federation, told Iranian media Saturday it's unlikely the national team will play World Cup matches in the U.S. following the U.S. and Israeli strikes.
- Iran is scheduled to play two matches in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle.
What they're saying: "What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope," Taj said, the Associated Press reported.
Catch up quick: Iran is scheduled to play Egypt on June 26 at Lumen Field in one of six matches hosted in Seattle.
- The match had already drawn controversy after the city designated it a "Pride Match" tied to local LGBTQ+ celebrations, an initiative Tehran objected to last year, per ESPN.
The other side: As of Saturday, FIFA — soccer's global governing body — had not confirmed Iran's withdrawal, per Sport Bible.
- FIFA secretary-general Mattias Grafström said that officials were monitoring developments around the world but that it was premature to comment.
- The local organizing committee, Seattle FIFA World Cup 26, told the Seattle Times on Saturday it was "monitoring" the situation.
By the numbers: In addition to Egypt vs. Iran, Seattle is slated to host five other World Cup matches and nine fan zones across Washington:
- Three group-stage games: Belgium vs. Egypt (June 15), the U.S. vs. Australia (June 19), and TBD vs. Qatar (June 24).
- Two knockout-round matches on July 1 and July 6, with the July 6 winner advancing to the quarterfinals.
What's next: If Iran does formally withdraw before the tournament starts, FIFA rules allow a replacement team to be nominated — with Iraq or the United Arab Emirates cited by AP as likely replacements.