President Donald Trump on Wednesday questioned whether Iran’s national soccer team should attend the 2026 World Cup, a day after Tehran said it would withdraw from the tournament after being attacked by the United States.
“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,” Trump wrote on social media.
It was unclear whether he was referring to their safety traveling to the United States or during the tournament itself. Some social media users interpreted the remark as a threat and expressed concern.
Trump’s comments came a day after FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he had discussed Iran’s participation with him and had received assurances about the team’s entry into the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Infantino, who maintains a close relationship with Trump, said the president had reiterated the Iranian team was “of course, welcome” to compete in the United States. Trump had previously said he did not care whether Iran participated.
Iran were drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand and were scheduled to open against New Zealand in Inglewood, California., on June 15, face Belgium on June 21 and conclude the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
But Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, said Wednesday that Team Melli would not take part in the tournament amid the war.
“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” he said on state television.
Iran had selected Tucson’s Kino Sports Complex as its base camp after preparations stretching back more than 18 months, leaving those plans—and related economic activity in Arizona—uncertain following the withdrawal.
FIFA regulations say any team that withdraws no later than 30 days before its first match faces a fine of at least 250,000 Swiss francs ($320,800), while additional sanctions could include expulsion from future competitions or replacement by another national team.
