President Donald J. Trump addressed the ongoing discussion regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran's national soccer team's qualification and potential participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump stated: "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! President DONALD J. TRUMP"
President Trump's comments follow recent discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, during which assurances were provided that the Iranian team would be welcome to compete in the tournament.
However, amid heightened geopolitical tensions including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East President Trump expressed serious concerns about the safety and well-being of Iranian players and officials if they were to travel to North America for the event.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, expanded to 48 teams, is scheduled to begin in June 2026. Iran qualified as one of the participating nations, but recent developments, including statements from Iran's sports ministry indicating that conditions for participation do not exist, have cast doubt on their involvement.
President Trump emphasized that while the United States remains committed to hosting a successful and inclusive global sporting event, the current circumstances make participation by the Iranian team inadvisable from a security standpoint. He reiterated that the decision reflects a priority for the protection of individuals over political considerations.
The White House continues to monitor the situation closely in coordination with FIFA, host nations, and relevant security agencies to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators throughout the tournament.