The 2026 FIFA World Cup could begin this summer with one striking absence. Iran, already qualified for football's biggest stage, may walk away from the tournament after its government said taking part would be impossible following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a recent conflict with the United States and Israel.
FIFA leaders and US officials say the Iranian team remains welcome. Tehran's top sports authority, however, insists the country cannot send players to compete in the very nation it holds responsible for the death of its leader.
