Trump Urges Iran to Skip 2026 World Cup, Citing Safety Concerns
The Iranian national soccer team has responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup could jeopardize their “life and safety,” asserting that FIFA, not any single country, governs the tournament. The exchange highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting the sporting world.
Trump’s Statement and Iran’s Rebuttal
President Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, March 12, 2026, stated, “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life, and safety.” ESPN reports this came after Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, indicated the country might not participate following recent airstrikes.
The Iranian team swiftly responded via their Telegram account, stating, “The World Cup is a historic and international event and its governing body is FIFA — not any individual, country.” They further suggested that if the U.S. Could not guarantee the safety of participating teams, it should not be a co-host of the tournament. BBC Sport detailed this response.
Previous Discussions with FIFA
Trump’s recent comments followed a conversation with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and White House FIFA task force executive director Andrew Giuliani on Tuesday, March 11, 2026, where he conveyed Iran’s welcome to participate despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. CBS News reported on this initial discussion.
However, Iran was the only country not present at a planning session earlier this month in Atlanta, and Trump previously stated to Politico, “I really don’t care” if Iran participates. CBS News also noted this earlier sentiment.
Tournament Schedule and Concerns
Iran is scheduled to play Modern Zealand in Inglewood, California, on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. ESPN provides these match details.
The situation remains fluid, with Iran’s participation contingent on security assurances and their own assessment of the risks involved. The Iranian sports minister initially stated that Iran cannot participate in the 2026 World Cup following airstrikes against the country by the United States and Israel. ESPN reported this initial stance.
FIFA’s Position
Infantino previously posted on social media, stating, “We all necessitate an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together now more than ever.” CBS News highlighted this statement, emphasizing FIFA’s desire for the tournament to proceed as a unifying event.