Former U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced conflicting opinions regarding Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising questions about the team’s potential involvement in the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Initially, Trump stated that the Iranian national team was “welcome” to compete, despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East. However, he subsequently expressed reservations, suggesting their presence might be “not appropriate” for their own safety. “The Iranian soccer team is welcome at the World Cup, but I don’t think it’s appropriate for them to be there, for their safety and life,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, according to CNN.
This back-and-forth comes after Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Khodaei indicated on Wednesday that Iran might not participate in the tournament, citing recent joint military strikes by the United States and Israel against targets within Iran, Sky News Arabia reported. The World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with 48 teams competing.
Iran was originally slated to play its group stage matches in Los Angeles, and Seattle. The tournament promises to be a significant event for North American soccer fans, and any disruption to the participant list would undoubtedly be felt.
Despite Trump’s initial welcoming statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously informed him that the Iranian team would be welcome to participate, CNN noted. However, the Iranian government’s stance remains uncertain.
Adding to the complexity, Goal.com reports that the Iranian national team has officially responded to Trump’s statements, calling for the United States to be excluded from the 2026 World Cup. This demand follows a period of escalating conflict between Iran and the U.S., which began on February 28, 2026, with the U.S. And Israel launching military strikes against Iran, resulting in numerous casualties, including the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran subsequently retaliated with strikes against Israel and U.S. Facilities in Gulf states.
The situation remains fluid, and the Iranian team’s final decision regarding participation in the 2026 World Cup is still pending. The evolving geopolitical landscape continues to cast a shadow over the upcoming tournament.
