Iran's National Football Team Declines Participation in 2026 World Cup
Iran's national football team will not participate in the 2026 World Cup, as announced by the Islamic Republic's Minister of Sport, Ahmad Donyamali.
Donyamali cited the current political climate as the reason, stating that with a "corrupt government having killed Iran's leader," and the country having endured "two wars in eight to nine months resulting in thousands of casualties," there are no suitable conditions for their participation in the championship.
Meanwhile, sports commentator Dmitry Guberniev suggested that Russia could potentially replace Iran at the 2026 World Cup, citing the escalating military conflict in the Middle East. Guberniev proposed that former US President Donald Trump could negotiate with FIFA head Gianni Infantino for a "wild card" invitation for the Russian team. The hypothetical non-participation of the Iranian team due to heightened tensions with the US could serve as a justification for this substitution.
In a separate development, the International Handball Federation and the European Handball Federation have permitted Russian athletes to compete in youth and junior international competitions.
Fresh materials — Sport news
Elite League Team of the Week: Round 30
The Elite League concluded its regular season with thrilling action, as teams solidified playoff positions and key players delivered exceptional performances. As the league prepares for the postseason, we highlight the standout individuals who made a significant impact in Round 30. Elite L
Elite League Ice Hockey Round-Up: Glasgow Clan Suffers Humiliating Defeat to Sheffield Steelers
The Elite League regular season is drawing to a close, with just one game remaining before the playoffs. Following a series of high-scoring encounters on the penultimate night of the campaign, the race for top-eight seeding remains intensely competitive. The Cardiff Devils, Nottingham Panth
Elite League Team of the Month: March 2026
As March draws to a close, the Elite League season is approaching its thrilling climax. Only a few regular-season games are left before the intensity of the playoffs takes over for two weeks of high-stakes hockey. March was a significant month, with the Belfast Giants securing their first titl
Future stars on thin ice: How children’s and junior teams are preparing for success in UK clubs
British ice hockey rarely grabs international headlines, which makes every emerging talent even more significant. Behind every young player's debut in the Elite League or the national team lie countless hours on small rinks across the country, cold morning practices, and dedicated coaching. Chi
Pete Russell Returns to MK Lightning as Director of Hockey and Head Coach
Pete Russell, the highly respected Great Britain men’s national team head coach, has been appointed Director of Hockey and Head Coach for the Planet Ice NIHL National Division side, MK Lightning. This move marks a significant homecoming for Russell, who is widely regarded as one of the mo
Team Great Britain Names Six World Championship Debutants to 2026 Roster
Great Britain has finalized its roster for the 2026 IIHF World Championship, featuring six players making their debut on the international stage. Coventry Blaze goaltender Mat Robson, 29, headlines the list of newcomers, joining the national squad for the first time after gaining eligibili