Trump Assures Iran’s World Cup Participation Amidst Middle East Tensions

Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated that he received assurances from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This confirmation comes after recent concerns raised by Iranian officials about their team’s ability to compete given the current geopolitical climate.

Concerns Over Iranian Participation

Recent U.S. And Israeli military actions in Iran prompted the president of the Iranian Soccer Federation, Mehdi Taj, to express doubt about the nation’s participation in the tournament [1]. These concerns arose following attacks that killed Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and triggered retaliatory strikes by Iran.

Trump’s Reassurance

President Trump initially stated, “I really don’t care” if Iran participates in the 48-nation tournament [1]. However, following a meeting with Infantino on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Trump reportedly reiterated that the Iranian team is “of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States” [1], [3], [4].

FIFA’s Anticipation

FIFA anticipates Iran’s national team will be able to compete, despite the ongoing conflict. Iran is scheduled to play New Zealand in Inglewood, California, on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 [1]. The tournament is set to run from June 11 to July 19.

Infantino’s Statement

Gianni Infantino shared the outcome of his meeting with President Trump on Instagram, stating that they discussed the preparations for the World Cup and the situation in Iran [2]. He confirmed that Trump assured him Iran would be permitted to participate.

The situation remains fluid, but this assurance from President Trump offers a degree of certainty regarding Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.