Follow Us on Google
By Goli Innocent
United States President Donald Trump says he is not bothered about whether Iran features at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, brushing aside growing controversy over the country’s possible participation.
“I really don’t care,” Trump told Politico on Tuesday when asked if Iran should be allowed to compete. “I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes,” he added, in his characteristically blunt tone.
Iran had earlier secured qualification for the 2026 tournament, becoming one of the first teams to book a spot. But its absence from a recent FIFA planning meeting in Atlanta has fuelled speculation that Tehran may reconsider sending a team, especially with the United States serving as one of the host nations.
The uncertainty is unfolding against the backdrop of escalating hostilities in the Middle East. Recent US and Israeli airstrikes inside Iran, followed by retaliatory missile attacks, have raised diplomatic tensions and renewed questions about visas for Iranian players, officials and supporters travelling to America.
Other News
Iran’s football federation president, Mehdi Taj, admitted the situation has cast a shadow over preparations. “What is certain is that after this attack, we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope,” he told Iranian sports outlet Varzesh3.
While the tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, the political temperature remains high.
Although exemptions exist for teams and essential staff under US travel restrictions, visa approvals for other delegates are subject to case-by-case review a process that previously sparked friction ahead of the World Cup draw.
For now, football finds itself walking a tightrope between sport and politics. And as the countdown to 2026 continues, the question is no longer just about who qualifies on the pitch, but who will be cleared to step onto it.
