Trump Clears Iran to Play 2026 World Cup Matches in US

President Trump said he is fine with Iran playing its 2026 World Cup matches in the United States. That statement echoes FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s confirmation that Iran will keep its scheduled U.S. venues, removing doubt after the team’s delegation skipped the recent FIFA congress.

Earlier this week, Iranian officials left Canada after a dispute with border agents over ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which Canada lists as a terrorist organization. The incident left Iran as the only absent member at the 76th FIFA congress in Vancouver.

Infantino reiterated that Iran would play its group games in the U.S. as originally planned. Iran is set to be based in Tucson, Arizona, and will face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G, opening against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.

Trump told reporters, “If Gianni said it, I’m OK,” and added, “Let them play.” Infantino had opened the congress by stating, “Of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” and “Of course, Iran will play [in] the United States of America.” The quotes show alignment between the U.S. president and FIFA’s leadership on the matter.

The clearance removes a potential logistical hurdle for organizers, who had considered shifting Iran’s matches to Mexico amid political tension.

It also signals that, despite broader diplomatic strains, the tournament will proceed with the originally allocated venues. Security planners will likely coordinate with U.S. and Iranian officials to ensure smooth entry for players and fans.

Iran’s last World Cup appearance was in 2022 in Qatar, where the team earned one point from three matches. The side has qualified for six tournaments overall, most recently advancing through the Asian qualifiers.

Monitor any further statements from Iranian authorities or Canadian officials, and observe how teams handle travel and training logistics as the June 15 opener approaches.