Trending Now - Iran Soccer Team Responds to Trump's World Cup Comments

WHO:

President Donald Trump

Iran's national soccer team

Ahmad Donyamali, Iran's sports minister

Gianni Infantino, FIFA President

WHAT:

Iran's national soccer team stated “no one can exclude” it from playing in the men’s World Cup.

Trump suggested that the Iranian team should skip the World Cup “for their own life and safety.”

Iran is scheduled to play three group games in the World Cup: against New Zealand on June 15th, Belgium on June 21st, and Egypt on June 26th.

Iran is ranked No. 20 in the world by FIFA and has qualified for its fourth consecutive World Cup.

WHERE:

The World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Iran's matches are set to occur in Inglewood, California, and Seattle, Washington.

The Iranian soccer federation plans to use a base camp in Tucson, Arizona, at the Kino Sports Complex.

WHEN:

The World Cup is scheduled for June 2026.

FIFA’s annual congress is set for April 30th, 2026, in Vancouver.

Meetings in Atlanta occurred the week prior to March 13th, 2026.

WHY:

Iran decided not to participate in the World Cup due to concerns over safety amid ongoing regional conflict.

Trump indicated that the U.S. could not guarantee the safety of the Iranian players.

HOW:

Iran's national soccer team communicated its stance through an official post on Instagram.

Trump expressed mixed messages regarding Iran's participation, stating “I really don’t care” if Iran plays, while also welcoming the team at the White House.

(UPDATED March 13, 2026 19:20 UTC)

Iran's national soccer team has declared that “no one can exclude” them from participating in the upcoming men's World Cup, despite President Trump suggesting they should skip the tournament for their own safety amid ongoing regional conflict. The team, currently ranked No. 20 in the world by FIFA, is set to play three group matches in June against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with games taking place in Inglewood, California, and Seattle, Washington. Iran's decision to participate remains uncertain, as Trump has indicated that the U.S. cannot guarantee the safety of the players, while also expressing mixed feelings about their involvement.