Trump Confirms Iran Will Be Welcome at 2026 World Cup, FIFA President Says!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (journalist) | Sele Media Africa
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has revealed that former U.S. President Donald Trump assured football authorities that the Islamic Republic of Iran will be welcome to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite escalating geopolitical tensions between Tehran and Washington.
The announcement came during discussions on preparations for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Infantino confirmed that Iran, which has already qualified for the finals, will be allowed entry and full competition rights on U.S. soil.
Infantino’s statements, shared with international media, follow concerns about whether Iran’s team could safely travel to the U.S. amid regional instability triggered by recent U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iranian territory. Tehran has responded with its own military measures, raising questions about security and logistics for the team’s participation.
The FIFA chief, who maintains a close relationship with Trump, said the talks reviewed tournament preparations and the status of all qualified teams. Trump reportedly emphasized that football should transcend political conflicts, reaffirming that Iran remains “welcome to compete” at the World Cup.
Iran is drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, with all matches scheduled in U.S. cities including Los Angeles and Seattle. If both the U.S. and Iran advance from the group stage, they could potentially face each other in a knockout match in Dallas on July 3.
FIFA has also dismissed speculation about postponing the 2026 World Cup, calling such rumors “unrealistic” and confirming that the tournament is on track.
While Iran’s football federation recently voiced concerns over security and diplomatic issues, FIFA’s assurances suggest the country’s team will participate barring any unforeseen developments. This announcement underscores the organization’s commitment to keeping the global tournament inclusive, even amid political tensions.
Sources:
The Guardian
Reuters
ESPN
AS USA
Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.
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