Trump Questions Iran’s Participation in 2026 World Cup Over Safety Concerns

US President Donald Trump and
FIFA President Gianni Infantino with the World Cup trophy

United States President Donald Trump has said it would be “inappropriate” for Iran to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing concerns about the safety of the country’s players amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Speaking on Thursday through his Truth Social platform, Trump stressed that while Iran’s national team would not be barred from the tournament, their participation could expose them to potential risks due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, is expected to feature 48 teams. Iran had already qualified for the competition and was drawn in Group G, alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, with matches scheduled to take place in cities such as Los Angeles and Seattle.

Trump, however, suggested that the prevailing security environment could make the tournament unsafe for the Iranian squad. According to reports, he said that although the team is welcome to attend, it may not be appropriate for them to do so “for their life and safety.”

His remarks came shortly after Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, indicated that the country might not send its national team to the tournament, citing the heightened tensions following recent military confrontations involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

The uncertainty has raised questions about whether Iran will ultimately participate in the competition. If the country withdraws, football’s world governing body FIFA could be forced to find a replacement team, a scenario rarely seen at the World Cup finals.

Despite the controversy, FIFA has previously maintained that Iran remains eligible to compete, emphasising that the global tournament is intended to unite nations through sport even during periods of political tension.

The situation continues to evolve as international authorities monitor both the political climate and Iran’s final decision regarding its involvement in the tournament.