Trump Says Iran Welcome to Play at 2026 FIFA World Cup

United States President Donald Trump has said that Iran will be allowed to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering reassurance amid tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The statement was confirmed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino after discussions about preparations for the tournament.

Infantino said Trump assured him that the Iran national football team would be “welcome” to compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The confirmation follows concerns that political tensions could affect Iran’s participation in the tournament.

• Trump says Iran team welcome at 2026 FIFA World Cup
• FIFA confirms Iran participation despite political tensions
• US, Canada, Mexico prepare for expanded 48-team tournament

Questions about Iran’s involvement grew after recent developments in the Middle East and reports of military activity involving the United States and Israel. The situation raised concerns that diplomatic restrictions or travel restrictions could prevent Iranian players, officials and supporters from entering the United States during the tournament.

Infantino said the matter was discussed during a meeting focused on World Cup preparations and logistics. According to the FIFA president, Trump indicated that Iran’s team should be able to take part in the competition despite the current political situation.

Iran has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers through the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifying rounds. The national team secured its place after a strong campaign and is preparing for the tournament scheduled to take place across North America.

Speculation about Iran’s participation increased after the country’s football officials were not present at a recent FIFA planning meeting in Atlanta. Their absence prompted questions about possible travel restrictions or political complications affecting preparations.

Iran has previously participated in several World Cups, including the 2018 tournament in Russia and the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The national team remains one of Asia’s strongest sides and has regularly qualified for the competition in recent years.

FIFA has maintained that the World Cup is an international sporting event where teams compete based on qualification results. The governing body has repeatedly stated that political issues should not prevent qualified teams from participating in global tournaments.

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Preparations for the North America World Cup 2026 are continuing as organisers coordinate venues, logistics and security arrangements across the three host countries. The tournament will be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, with matches taking place in multiple cities across North America.