Overview
- President Trump wrote that Iran is welcome to the 2026 tournament but said it would not be appropriate for the team to attend for their own life and safety.
- Iran’s men’s team responded that participation is governed by FIFA, asserting no one can exclude them and suggesting a host that cannot ensure security could be removed.
- Iran’s sports minister said on state television that the nation cannot participate under any circumstances after the strikes that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino had said Trump assured him Iran would be welcome, even as Iranian officials skipped preparatory meetings in the United States.
- Iran is still listed to play New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle in June, with FIFA considering contingency options under its rules if a team withdraws.