By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
U.S. President Donald Trump has said Iran will be allowed to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel in the Middle East.
The assurance followed discussions between Trump and Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, as preparations continue for the global football tournament scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Infantino disclosed on Instagram that Trump reiterated the Iranian national team would be “of course welcome” to compete in the competition in the United States.
Questions had emerged over Iran’s participation after hostilities between Iran, Israel and the United States escalated in late February, raising concerns about travel and security arrangements for the tournament.
Iran is currently scheduled to play its three group-stage matches in the United States, including fixtures expected to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The uncertainty also comes amid reports that the Iran Football Federation had earlier expressed concerns about sending the national team to the tournament because of the ongoing tensions.
Meanwhile, several members of Iran’s women’s national team reportedly sought asylum during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, following criticism at home after they declined to sing the national anthem before a match.
