President Donald Trump has cast doubt on Iran’s participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, stating that while the team is “welcome,” it is no longer “appropriate” for them to attend due to safety concerns.
The comments, posted Thursday on Truth Social, follow a massive escalation in Middle East tensions.
After U.S. and Israeli strikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran retaliated with missile attacks against Israel and four Gulf nations housing U.S. bases.
Trump cited the “life and safety” of the players as the primary reason for his stance.
Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that “under no circumstances” could the team participate following the assassination of their leader, declaring, “Our boys are not safe.”
Iran was scheduled to play New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Los Angeles and Seattle this June.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously said Trump had guaranteed Iran’s entry, but the governing body must now decide on a replacement if Iran formally withdraws.
The 2026 World Cup is set to begin on June 11, hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
