Iran eliminated from 2026 World Cup after US official's remarks

Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended over the weekend, eliminated from the tournament despite remaining unbeaten in the group stage. The team’s exit was followed by controversial remarks from a senior U.S. official, highlighting how geopolitical tensions overshadowed its campaign.

Iran was officially eliminated on Saturday, June 27, after finishing third in Group G with three points from three draws. The team’s fate was sealed when results from other groups did not fall in its favor, narrowly missing out on a knockout round spot. Iran’s final match was a dramatic 1-1 draw with Egypt in Seattle on Friday, June 26, where a stoppage-time winning goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review.

The team’s tournament was defined by significant logistical challenges due to U.S. visa restrictions stemming from ongoing military and diplomatic tensions. The Iranian squad was based in Tijuana, Mexico, and was permitted to enter the United States only within a narrow window before each match, after which it was required to return immediately to Mexico. Approximately a dozen members of the team’s delegation were denied U.S. visas.

On Monday, June 29, U.S. Department of...