Iran says it will walk off 2026 World Cup matches over political chanting

TEHRAN, Iran — TEHRAN — Iran will withdraw from any 2026 FIFA World Cup match in which political chanting or slogans are heard from the stands, Sports Minister Ahmad Dungalimali said Wednesday. He added that Iranian authorities have already informed FIFA of the decision and will request referees to halt play immediately if any political expressions are detected. Dungalimali said Iran will not accept political banners, slogans or choreographed displays inside stadiums and will formally seek match stoppages. According to the minister, the Iranian Football Federation is also in contact with FIFA to coordinate security arrangements around the issue. The 2026 World Cup is due to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and has drawn global attention in the run-up to Thursday's opening of the tournament. Dungalimali did not specify which political expressions would trigger the response. The minister's remarks come as Iran prepares for its group-stage campaign at the tournament. No further details on FIFA's response were immediately available.