Tehran – Amid widespread popular enthusiasm and a clear political will to compete on the global stage, Iran’s Parliamentary Cultural Commission has confirmed that a specialized committee is actively reviewing the conditions for Team Melli’s potential participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States. However, officials stress that no final decision has been reached, and any move forward is contingent on binding security guarantees from hostile U.S. authorities.
Strong Domestic Desire to Compete
Speaking to reporters, Ahmad Rastineh, spokesman for the Islamic Consultative Assembly’s Cultural Commission, underscored that both the Iranian public and political establishment are keenly determined to see Iran’s national team at the World Cup. Following a recent meeting with Ahmad Donyamali, Minister of Sports and Youth, and his deputies, Rastineh noted that participation in the 2026 World Cup is viewed as a matter of national pride and sporting excellence.
“The meeting extensively discussed the need for better planning to prepare national teams for Asian and world competitions, as well as securing future Olympic quotas,” Rastineh said. “Given the immense importance of the World Cup, detailed discussions were held with the minister and commission members. The popular demand and political inclination to participate are very strong, and we are exploring every avenue to make this happen.”
No Final Decision: Awaiting U.S. Assurances
Despite the widespread desire to attend the tournament, Rastineh made it clear that a final decision has not yet been made. The primary obstacle remains the absence of reliable security guarantees from U.S. authorities, whom Iranian officials characterize as a hostile government.
“In light of the multifaceted nature of these competitions and the conditions that occurred during past tensions—specifically the hostile atmosphere created by U.S. authorities—the need to form a specialized working group was emphasized,” Rastineh explained. “It was decided that a final decision will be made soon, but only after receiving concrete assurances from American officials regarding the safety and dignity of Iran’s national team delegation, including players, coaches, and accompanying personnel.”
He added that until such guarantees are provided and thoroughly vetted, the Islamic Republic will not commit to sending Team Melli to the United States, regardless of the strong popular and political inclination to participate.
Looking Ahead
The specialized committee will continue its review, weighing the passionate demands of Iranian football fans against the necessity of securing firm commitments from U.S. authorities. For now, Iran’s World Cup hopes remain alive, but officially on hold.
Meanwhile, Team Melli held its first training session under Amir Ghalenoei in preparation for the World Cup. 30 domestic league players are involved in the training camp. Iran matches are to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.