The head of Iran’s football federation has said he is uncertain whether the national team will be able to play its World Cup matches in the United States following the unexpected joint bombardment of Iran by the U.S. and Israel.
Speaking to sports outlet Varzesh3, federation president Mehdi Taj said that under the current circumstances, it is difficult to approach the tournament with optimism. His remarks came as Iran and Israel continued exchanging strikes in an escalating conflict triggered by the attacks.
The U.S.-Israeli offensive entered a second day on Sunday. The reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has deepened uncertainty over the country’s future and heightened fears of broader regional instability.
Iran has been placed in Group G for the upcoming World Cup and is set to play its opening matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21, before facing Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
The tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Iranian fans had already been restricted from entering the U.S. under the initial version of the travel ban introduced by the Trump administration.