Washington, USA – Sports Desk : Amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, President Donald Trump has warned that the Iranian national football team could face life-threatening risks if it participates in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the U.S.
Trump advised the team to reconsider its participation, citing player safety concerns, as political and security conditions remain volatile. “This decision could be better for their own safety,” he stated, according to media reports.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Iran secured its spot by finishing first in Group A of the Asian qualifying stage, marking the country’s fourth consecutive World Cup appearance.
However, the recent geopolitical tensions have cast doubt on Iran’s participation. Mahdi Taj, head of the Iranian Football Federation, said current conditions make tournament participation “difficult.” Similarly, Iran’s Minister of Sports noted in a television interview that ongoing attacks and regional unrest have complicated the team’s ability to travel safely.
In contrast, FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that the Iranian team will be welcomed at the tournament, highlighting football’s role in uniting nations despite political conflicts.
The situation underscores the intersection of sports diplomacy and international security, raising concerns over whether geopolitical tensions could affect one of football’s most prominent global events.
