Trump Says ‘Let Them Play’ as Iran Heads to World Cup in the US

U.S. President Donald Trump said he is comfortable with Iran competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including matches held on American soil. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump deferred to FIFA leadership, saying, “If Gianni said it, I’m OK,” before adding, “Let them play.” His remarks provide the clearest indication yet that the U.S. government will not block Iran’s participation despite ongoing tensions.

Infantino Confirms US Matches

FIFA President Gianni Infantino had already confirmed that Iran would take part in the tournament and play games in the United States. Speaking at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, he told delegates that Iran’s presence was not in question. The statement effectively shut down speculation that geopolitical tensions might force a change in tournament logistics.

Iran’s World Cup status had been uncertain since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israel conflict involving Iran earlier this year. The escalation raised questions about whether Iranian players would be allowed entry into the United States or whether matches would need to be relocated. The issue has turned a routine sporting decision into a diplomatic test case.

Proposal to Shift Games Rejected

Iranian officials had explored moving their group-stage matches to Mexico, one of the tournament’s co-hosts. That proposal was rejected by FIFA, which has maintained a consistent stance on the tournament structure across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The governing body appears determined to avoid setting a precedent of altering venues due to political disputes.

Tensions surfaced ahead of the FIFA Congress when Iran’s delegation failed to attend the meeting. Officials from the country’s football federation left Canada after arriving in Toronto, citing issues with border authorities. Their absence made Iran the only one of FIFA’s 211 member associations not represented at the gathering.

Tournament Logistics Take Priority

FIFA’s decision reflects a broader priority to preserve the integrity and schedule of the World Cup. Allowing political considerations to reshape match locations could complicate planning for a tournament spanning three countries. By confirming Iran’s participation in the U.S., FIFA is signaling that sporting frameworks will hold even under geopolitical strain.

While both FIFA and the White House have publicly aligned, practical challenges remain unresolved. Visa approvals, security arrangements, and potential public backlash could still complicate Iran’s participation. The situation leaves open the risk that political developments could disrupt execution, even if the formal decision has been made.