US President Donald Trump said that Iran is “welcome” at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it won't be “appropriate” for them to participate in it.
“The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he posted on Truth Social.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada in June and July.
Previously, Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said that his country would not be able to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel. The military action resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and set off a wider regional confrontation.
"Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup. Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist," the minister told state television, reported The Guardian.
Donyamali's interview carried significance as it followed a statement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who said Trump had indicated that Iran would be allowed to participate in the World Cup.
“We also spoke about the current situation in Iran, and the fact that the Iranian team has qualified to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026. During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” Infantino posted on Instagram.
In the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran are grouped with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. Their Group G fixtures are scheduled to take place in the United States, with two games lined up in Los Angeles and a third in Seattle.
Should Iran withdraw from the FIFA World Cup, it could face sanctions under FIFA rules, including a possible suspension from future tournaments. Such consequences appear more likely after Gianni Infantino openly backed Iran's participation, reported The Guardian.
FIFA's regulations prohibit member associations from abandoning competitions once entered, and a withdrawal from the World Cup would mark an extraordinary development. No nation has stepped aside after the draw since 1950, when France and India chose not to attend because of travel expenses.
"The tournament regulations also provide disciplinary sanctions for any federation whose team withdraws. However, if Iran withdrew for any reason related to this current conflict, I doubt FIFA would impose any sanctions given the circumstances,” James Kitching, FIFA's former Director of Football Regulatory, told Reuters.
Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: What Happens If Iran Withdraw Amid War?
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.