Trump assures Iran of participation in 2026 World Cup despite tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump has assured that Iran’s national football team will be allowed to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite ongoing geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States.

The reassurance was disclosed by Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, following a meeting with Trump, where preparations for the global football tournament were discussed.

The 2026 tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the Iranian national team scheduled to play its group-stage matches across different venues in the United States.

Infantino confirms Trump’s assurance

Infantino said the issue of Iran’s participation was raised during his discussions with the U.S. president, particularly amid growing concerns following the recent escalation of conflict involving Iran.

Uncertainty had emerged within the football community after the United States and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran on February 28, raising questions about whether the Iranian team would be allowed into the country for the tournament.

According to the FIFA chief, Trump confirmed that the Iranian team remains welcome to participate in the competition.

Infantino noted that global events such as the World Cup play an important role in bringing people together, especially during periods of geopolitical tension.

Iran hints at possible boycott

While FIFA and the United States have indicated that Iran can participate, officials within Iran’s football administration have expressed uncertainty about the country’s involvement.

Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, said the country may reconsider its participation given the current situation.

Speaking to Iranian sports outlet Varzesh3 after the military strikes, Taj said the atmosphere surrounding the conflict had made it difficult to approach the upcoming tournament with optimism.

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Iran has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which is expected to begin in June, and the team is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in venues across the United States if it ultimately decides to participate.