Trump Doesn’t Care About Iran’s World Cup Participation

United States President Donald Trump has stated that he does not “care” whether Iran participates in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin in June. His remarks come at a time when the United States and Israel have launched attacks on Iranian targets, prompting Iran to retaliate against US allied countries in the Gulf region. This escalation has raised tensions and cast uncertainty over Iran’s involvement in the tournament.

The World Cup 2026 will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. When asked about Iran’s participation, Trump told Politico, “I really don’t care if Iran gets to play! I think Iran is a defeated country now. They have almost lost their strength.”

Iran has qualified for the World Cup for the fourth consecutive time. Placed in Group G, Iran will face New Zealand in their opening match on 15 June in California. This will be followed by a clash against Belgium on 21 June at the same venue, and their final group-stage match against Egypt on 26 June in Seattle.

Despite last year’s US bombings of three Iranian nuclear sites, the country did not withdraw from the competition. However, the current geopolitical tension has raised doubts about Iran’s ability to participate. Mehdi Taj, head of the Iranian Football Federation, has expressed concern over the situation. In an interview with sports portal Varzesh3, he said, “Given the recent attacks, it is unrealistic to expect optimism from us ahead of the World Cup. The US administration has struck at our homeland, and this cannot go unanswered.”

Speaking to Iranian state television, Taj further stated, “After the US strikes, the likelihood that we can focus on the World Cup is low. Those who follow sports will make the decisions regarding our participation.”

FIFA Secretary General Matthias Grafström added on Saturday, “Our goal is to ensure a safe World Cup where all teams can participate.”

Below is a summary of Iran’s World Cup 2026 schedule and key information:

With just three months remaining until the tournament, the escalating geopolitical situation has caused unease among football fans worldwide. Ensuring Iran’s safe participation while maintaining an uninterrupted competition remains a major challenge for international football authorities.