Iran rebukes Trump over World Cup safety comments

The Iranian football federation issued a defiant response to Donald Trump after he suggested their presence at the 2026 World Cup would be "inappropriate" for their own safety. Tensions reached a breaking point following the commencement of military strikes in the region, leaving Team Melli’s participation on American soil unlikely.

Since the beginning of Israeli-American strikes on Iranian soil on February 28, Team Melli’s status has dominated the World Cup build-up. Iran was one of the first nations to qualify, but preparations have been hampered and the team missed a mandatory FIFA preparatory meeting in Atlanta, fuelling speculation of a complete withdrawal.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino initially said he had received hosting assurances from Washington, but the White House later framed Iranian athletes' presence in Los Angeles and Seattle as a significant security risk. The national team posted on Instagram: "The World Cup is a historic and international event, and its governing body is FIFA – not an individual or a country.

United States, Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta

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