Iran is playing for history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The crypto industry is playing a different game entirely, one where Iranian digital assets are getting tackled by US regulators before they can even reach midfield.
While coach Amir Ghalenoei’s 30-man squad battles through Group G, Nobitex, Iran’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is dealing with US sanctions that have resulted in roughly $1B in seized digital assets.
On the pitch and off the rails
Iran opened Group G with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium, a result that keeps their knockout round hopes alive but hardly comfortable. Mehdi Taremi had a goal disallowed for offside during the match.
The squad itself carries a notable absence. Forward Sardar Azmoun was left off Ghalenoei’s roster, a decision that raised eyebrows given his international pedigree.
