FIFA president says Iran will play in World Cup as Trump backs their participation: 'Let them play'
Iran is scheduled to begin play on June 15 in Los Angeles against New Zealand.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino affirmed on Thursday that Iran will take part in this summer’s World Cup despite the country’s current conflict between the country and the United States. "Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course Iran will play in the United States of America," Infantino said during his opening remarks of the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. "The reason for that is very simple, dear friends, is because we have to unite.
We have to bring people together. It is my responsibility. " Among the 211-member FIFA congress, Iran was the only absentee.
When asked about Infantino’s comments, President Donald Trump said Thursday he was fine with Iran participating. DOOCY: The president of FIFA said that when the World Cup is here, the team from Iran will be playing TRUMP: Well if Gianni said it, I'm okay DOOCY: What if they win? TRUMP: I'll have to worry about that one.
You know what? Let them play. I told Gianni he could do whatever he… pic.