US President Donald Trump has cast doubt on Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, just days after assuring FIFA's president that the Iranian team would be welcome. In a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump said he does not believe it is appropriate for Iran to attend the tournament, citing concerns for their 'life and safety'.
This contradicts Trump's earlier assurance to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who on Tuesday said Trump had confirmed that Iran would be welcome to compete in the United States. Infantino had expressed gratitude for Trump's support, stating that the World Cup can bring people together.
Iran's sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, declared on Wednesday that Iran cannot participate 'under any circumstances', following US airstrikes on Iran earlier this month. Iran have been drawn in Group G with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.
Neither FIFA nor Iranian officials have provided an official update on the country's participation in the tournament, which the US is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.
