US President Donald Trump has said he “does not care” whether Iran take part in this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup, as tensions continue to rise between Washington and Tehran.
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‎His remarks come against the backdrop of escalating hostilities, with US and Israeli strikes on Iran followed by retaliatory attacks targeting US-allied states in the Gulf.
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‎The United States is co-hosting the expanded 48-team tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with matches scheduled to run from 11 June to 19 July.
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‎Speaking to Politico, Mr Trump dismissed concerns about Iran’s participation.
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‎“I really don’t care,” he said. “I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
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‎Iran have already qualified for what would be their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance. They are scheduled to open their campaign in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium, before concluding their group-stage fixtures against Egypt in Seattle.
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The country did not withdraw from international competition last year following US strikes on three nuclear facilities. However, amid the current crisis, reports suggest the head of Iran’s football federation, Mehdi Taj, has raised doubts over the team’s participation.
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‎Fifa has yet to comment publicly on the situation.
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‎The prospect of geopolitical tensions overshadowing the tournament presents a complex challenge for organisers, particularly as the United States prepares to welcome teams and supporters from across the globe.
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‎While qualification ensures Iran’s place on the pitch, the political backdrop threatens to cast a long shadow over the world’s biggest sporting event.