‘They may decide not to come on their own...’ US warns Iran ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

Washington: Despite the ongoing conflict in West Asia, United States President Donald Trump has indicated that he does not oppose Iran taking part in this summer’s FIFA World Cup. However, participation comes with specific conditions that must be followed by Iranian players and officials.

Trump suggested that his administration does not intend to penalise athletes, signalling a distinction between players and other individuals associated with the delegation.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined the conditions clearly while speaking to reporters on Thursday. He stated that while Iranian players are not barred from entering the United States, restrictions would apply to certain individuals accompanying them.

“Nothing from the US has told them that they cannot come. The problem with Iran would not be the athletes, but some other people they would want to bring, some of whom have ties to the IRGC,” Rubio said.

He further emphasised the country’s position, adding that such individuals may not be granted entry. “We may not be able to let them in. They may decide not to come on their own, but they cannot bring a group of IRGC terrorists into our country and present them as journalists or athletic trainers,” Rubio added.

Suggestion to replace Iran with Italy

Earlier developments included a proposal from a special envoy to President Trump, who reportedly urged FIFA to consider replacing Iran with Italy in the upcoming tournament, which is scheduled to begin on 11 June.

US special envoy Paolo Zampolli was quoted as saying that he had suggested the idea to both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I am an Italian native, and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion,” Zampolli said in the report.

Italy declines the proposal

The suggestion, however, did not receive support from Italy, as an Italian official rejected the proposal.

Iran’s match schedule confirmed

Iran is set to begin its FIFA World Cup campaign at SoFi Stadium, where it will face New Zealand on 16 June. The team will also play Belgium at the same venue before concluding its group stage fixtures against Mohamed Salah’s Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.

With agency inputs