Overview
- President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran's team should not participate in the 2026 tournament for its own safety.
- Iran's sports minister Ahmad Doyanmali said conditions for participation are unmet and declared players are absolutely not safe, framing attendance as impossible.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino earlier said Trump had reaffirmed that Iran was welcome, highlighting starkly mixed messaging.
- Iran's federation has not filed an official withdrawal, and the national team's Instagram account rebuked Trump's stance while insisting exclusion would fall on a host unable to ensure security.
- If Iran withdraws, reported FIFA penalties include a fine of roughly €275,000–€555,000, 3-0 forfeits for unplayed matches, and possible future competition bans, with Iran scheduled for two games in Los Angeles and one in Seattle and a Tucson base.