The United States President, Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to the Iranian National football team, suggesting their safety could be at risk if they travel to North America for this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, the President expressed skepticism about the appropriateness of Iran’s participation given the ongoing military conflict. While he acknowledged that the team is technically permitted to compete, he cited the current geopolitical climate as a significant threat to the players.
“The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to participate in the World Cup, but I truly don’t believe it is appropriate for them to be there, considering their own lives and safety,” Trump said.
The warning marks a shift in tone from just two days ago, when FIFA President Gianni Infantino reported that Trump had assured him Iranian players would be welcome during a meeting at the White House.
The conflict, which escalated following U.S. and Israeli military strikes on February 28, has cast a shadow over the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Infantino, who recently awarded Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, acknowledged the current situation in Iran during his visit to Washington. While the football chief initially stated that the Iranian team was definitely welcome, Trump’s latest remarks emphasize the volatility of the situation.
The President also recently weighed in on Iranian women footballers currently in Australia, suggesting they should be granted asylum.
Those players expressed fear of state-sanctioned punishment after refusing to sing the national anthem during an Asian Cup match. As the World Cup approaches, it remains unclear if the Iranian men’s team will fulfill its fixtures or withdraw due to the intensifying regional war
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