Trump Says Iran at 2026 World Cup ‘Not Appropriate’

US President Donald Trump said the Iran national football team is welcome to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he believes it may not be appropriate for the team to attend due to safety concerns.

In a post on Truth Social on Thursday, Trump said Iran’s national football team could take part in the tournament, but suggested that their participation might not be suitable considering the risks to their “life and safety.”

The comments come at a time of rising tensions in the region after the United States carried out airstrikes alongside Israel targeting locations in Tehran. The attacks have triggered a broader regional conflict that continues to escalate.

Earlier, Iran’s sports minister said it may not be possible for the country’s athletes to participate in international competitions after the US strikes. His remarks raised doubts about whether the national football team will travel for the World Cup.

The 48-team tournament will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Iran is scheduled to play matches in Los Angeles and Seattle during the tournament.

If Iran officially withdraws from the competition, it would be the first withdrawal from the modern era of the World Cup. In that case, global football governing body FIFA would need to quickly select a replacement team.

Iran was also the only country missing from a recent FIFA planning summit for World Cup participants held in Atlanta last week. FIFA has not yet issued an official statement regarding the situation.