US President Donald Trump stated that the Iranian national team will be warmly welcomed to compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Infantino announced on social media that he met with Trump on Tuesday night to discuss preparations for the upcoming World Cup, which will be held jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June to July. "Now more than ever, we need an event like the FIFA World Cup to bring people together," he added. Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following military attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran, increasing uncertainty about Iran's participation in the tournament. Last week, President of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, declared that Iran could not be optimistic about its participation in the World Cup under the current circumstances. According to the draw, Iran is placed in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt, and all three of their group-stage matches will be played in the United States. "During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian national team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," stated Infantino.
