Washington, DC – US President Donald Trump confirmed that the Iranian national football team is welcome to participate in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in North America. However, he simultaneously expressed doubts about the suitability of their participation, citing concerns about player safety.
Trump wrote on Truth Social: “The Iranian national football team is welcome at the World Cup, but I really don’t think it would be appropriate for them to be there, for their own lives and safety.”
Trump’s remarks came two days after FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced he had received assurances from the US president that the Iranian national team was welcome at the tournament. The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
For his part, Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Doniamale said earlier that his country “cannot participate under any circumstances” in the tournament. This was the first official government comment since the start of the US-led strikes on Iran, supported by Israel, late last month.
Iran is scheduled to play in Group G alongside Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand. All three of its matches will be played in the United States, with two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.
