Trump Raises Doubts Over Iran’s Role in 2026 World Cup

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed concern about the participation of Iran national football team in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, suggesting that it might not be the best decision given current security issues.

In a message shared on social media on Thursday, Trump stated that while Iran’s national team would not be officially barred from the tournament, their involvement could raise safety concerns. He said the players would technically be welcome but questioned whether attending the competition would be safe for them.

His remarks appeared to differ from earlier comments by Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, who recently indicated that Trump had assured him that Iranian players and officials would be allowed to enter the United States for the tournament.

Iran has already secured its place in the expanded 48-team competition, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The Iranian team is scheduled to play some of its group matches in cities such as Inglewood and Seattle.

Although the United States currently enforces travel restrictions affecting several countries, including Iran, exemptions are granted to athletes and team officials. This means the Iranian squad would still be able to enter the country to compete in the tournament.

Trump’s statement comes at a time when tensions remain high between the United States, Israel, and Iran following a conflict that intensified in late February, raising wider geopolitical concerns ahead of the global football event.