World Cup 2026: Iran warns it could abandon matches over political protests

Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali has stirred debate ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suggesting that the Iranian national team could walk off the pitch if political protests or anti-government chants emerge from the stands during matches.

The comments come as Iran prepares for a highly anticipated World Cup campaign in North America, where large crowds from the Iranian diaspora are expected to attend several fixtures.

Iranian Authorities Issue Warning

According to Iranian outlet Varzesh3, Donyamali stated that Iranian authorities have informed FIFA that the national team delegation would leave the stadium immediately if political slogans are heard during matches.

The minister’s remarks underline growing concerns within Iranian officials about the possibility of political demonstrations overshadowing the team’s participation in the tournament.

Dispute Over Political Symbols

Donyamali also addressed the issue of flags and political imagery inside stadiums.

He explained that FIFA has consistently stressed that only Iran’s official national flag should be displayed during matches. The former Iranian flag featuring the “Lion and Sun” emblem, which is commonly used by opposition groups and monarchist movements abroad, is reportedly prohibited under tournament regulations.

The symbol has become a prominent sign of protest among some Iranians living outside the country and has appeared at previous international sporting events.

Los Angeles Matches Under Spotlight

Iran are scheduled to play two group-stage matches in Los Angeles, beginning with a fixture against New Zealand next Monday before facing Belgium on June 21.

Given the size of the Iranian community in Southern California, both matches are expected to attract significant crowds.

Some members of the Iranian diaspora have previously used major sporting events to express political views and opposition to the government, raising the possibility of demonstrations during the World Cup.

Political Tensions Influence Preparations

The latest developments come amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States.

Reports indicate that the Iranian national team moved its training camp from Arizona to Tijuana in Mexico earlier this year. The squad is expected to travel into the United States only on match days, a decision believed to have been influenced by the political climate between the two nations.

Egypt Match to Conclude Group Stage

Iran will round off its group-stage campaign with a match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

As the World Cup approaches, the focus will not only be on Iran’s performances on the pitch but also on whether political tensions and potential protests could become a major storyline during the tournament.