'Let them play': Trump OKs Iran at World Cup in America
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US President Donald Trump has endorsed Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, stating he is “OK” with them playing in the United States following FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s confirmation.
“If Gianni said it, I’m OK,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “You know what? Let them play.”
Infantino opened Thursday’s 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver by affirming Iran’s presence: “Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course, Iran will play [in] the United States of America.”
Iran’s involvement in the Canada-Mexico-US tournament (June-July) had been uncertain amid the US-Israel war on Iran since February. Iranian officials suggested shifting group games to Mexico, but Infantino rejected it.
Tensions spilled into the congress: Iran’s delegation was absent from the 211-member meeting after Canadian border issues. FFIRI President Mehdi Taj (ex-IRGC member) and colleagues left Toronto for Tehran, claiming “insults” by immigration. Canada deems IRGC a “terrorist organisation” since 2024 and bars linked individuals.
Iran, based in Tucson, Arizona, face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G, opening against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June.