Iran's football federation president Mehdi Taj has expressed deep pessimism about the country's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, following US-Israel air strikes against Iran. In an interview with sports portal Varzesh3, Taj stated, 'What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope.' He added that Iran's sports chiefs would ultimately decide on the nation's involvement.
Iran is drawn in Group G for the World Cup in June, with matches scheduled against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle. However, preparations are further complicated by a 40-day mourning period following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the attacks. No matches will be played during this period.
The conflict has also disrupted other sports. Formula 1 personnel have had to change flights to Melbourne for the season opener due to closed Middle East airport hubs. Pirelli cancelled tyre tests in Bahrain for safety reasons. The Qatar soccer federation postponed all tournaments, and the Asian Football Confederation delayed Champions League play-offs.
SailGP's grand final in Abu Dhabi is under threat, with Australia skipper Tom Slingsby saying the event's viability is uncertain if conflict continues. Attacks on the UAE damaged Dubai's airport and the Burj Al Arab hotel, where SailGP plans a regatta. FIFA stated it is monitoring the situation, while the White House World Cup task force director Andrew Giuliani commented on social media, 'We'll deal with soccer games tomorrow — tonight, we celebrate their opportunity for freedom.'
