US President cites safety concerns amid rising tensions with Tehran
March 13, 2026: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Iran’s national football team should reconsider travelling to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing concerns over the players’ “life and safety.” In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said the team would technically be welcome at the tournament but suggested it might not be appropriate for them to attend given the current geopolitical tensions. The World Cup is scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The remarks come amid escalating hostilities between Iran, the United States and Israel following military strikes launched on February 28. Trump’s comments appear to mark a shift from earlier assurances reportedly given to Gianni Infantino, head of FIFA, that Iranian players and officials would be allowed to participate in the tournament.
Meanwhile, uncertainty has also emerged within Iran itself. Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the country may not take part in the tournament under current circumstances. If Iran withdraws despite qualifying, it would mark the first time in modern World Cup history that a qualified team pulls out of the competition. Iran is currently scheduled to face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in the group stage matches in California and Washington.