Sardar Azmoun excluded from Iran's 2026 World Cup squad

Sardar Azmoun, a 31-year-old forward, has been excluded from the Iran national football team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei did not include the player in the selection for training matches, signaling a permanent departure from the squad. According to the Iranian news agency Fars, which is associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the decision stems from allegations of violating national values and acting against the state. The player had previously voiced public support for the 'Woman, Life, Freedom' protest movement in Iran. Further reports suggest tensions were exacerbated by a recent social media post featuring Azmoun with the Emir of Dubai, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, during a period of diplomatic friction between Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Another player, Allahyar Sayyadmanesh, was also omitted from the squad, while Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Beiranvand remain part of the team. Authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the specific disciplinary proceedings, leading to varying interpretations of the exclusion.