Honda, a 'Japanese legend', said, "Iran should still participate in the World Cup," and his sincere heart, which was pressed hard in English, "I know I'm sensitive, but..."

*This content was translated by AI.

Japanese soccer legend Honda Keisuke (40) expressed his regret at the news of Iran's absence from the 2026 FIFA 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup.

Honda left his thoughts in English on his social media (SNS) on the 12th, citing an article that reported Iran's abandonment of its participation in the World Cup.

"I know it's a very sensitive issue, but I personally want them to play in the World Cup," he wrote. He expressed regret that the players would lose valuable opportunities to play in the World Cup due to political conflicts.

Iran, which is currently in a state of war with the United States and Israel, has declared an unprecedented "World Cup boycott." "We cannot participate in the World Cup under any circumstances, given that the corrupt regime (the United States) assassinated our leader (Ali Khamenei)," Ahmad Donyamali, Iran's Minister of Sports and Youth, said in an interview with Iran's state-run television. "It is impossible for the Iranian national soccer team to participate in the 2026 FIFA 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup." made clear

In the meantime, Honda's remarks on his conviction also pitted Japanese soccer fans against the reality that sports are caught up in political logic. The post said, "Iranian athletes will actually really want to participate in the World Cup," and "It's a pity that the performance of Iranian sports players in difficult times will give the people great hope."

Meanwhile, Honda is a legendary player who represents Japanese soccer. He played in three consecutive World Cups in 2010 South Africa, 2014 Brazil, and 2018 Russia, and played in Italy's Serie A prestigious AC Milan in the past, wearing No. 10, the symbol of an ace. Even after retiring from active duty, he continues to have influence in the soccer world, serving as the general manager (substantial manager) of the Cambodian national team.

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*This content was translated by AI.