Today’s news is filled with global tensions and conflicts, set against a backdrop that some fear resembles conditions akin to a world war. With various conflicts and wars occurring worldwide, experts are considering how major cultural events, such as the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, may be affected.
This will be the first time in 32 years that the United States will host the prestigious soccer tournament. However, just months before the event, the country finds itself entangled in significant ongoing conflicts. Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamal, expressed that due to recent hostilities and casualties inflicted on their people, Iran cannot participate in the World Cup.
President Donald Trump remarked that he is indifferent to Iran’s participation, stating his view on the country’s weakened state. Despite tensions, Iran did not withdraw from group matches in 2025, even amid reported threats from the US.
Historically, World Cups have been canceled twice due to wars, such as during the Second World War when stadiums were repurposed as military bases, leading to the cancellation of the 1942 and 1946 tournaments. After the war, FIFA awarded hosting rights to Brazil, ending a 12-year hiatus.
Boycotts by federations are not uncommon, with instances like Turkey, Indonesia, Egypt, and Sudan withdrawing from qualifiers in the ’50s over political reasons. The USSR also declined to play Chile in the 1974 playoffs, and England considered avoiding a match against Argentina during the Falklands War in 1982.
Regarding the upcoming tournament, FIFA’s World Cup chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, emphasized that the situation is continually evolving, and decisions will be made in collaboration with global partners. The hope is for the World Cup to proceed as it serves as a unifying global event, fostering international camaraderie among nations.
Russia’s exclusion from international football remains in place following its actions in Ukraine in 2022. Ukraine’s participation in the World Cup hinges on upcoming qualification matches to be decided by the end of March.