The Iranian national football team recently asserted its right to participate in the 2026 World Cup, issuing a strong statement on social media on 12/3. This declaration directly responded to earlier remarks from US President Donald Trump, who advised Iran against competing due to safety concerns. The team emphasized, "The World Cup is an international event organized by FIFA, not belonging to any single nation." They highlighted their qualification through "consecutive victories by its players and as one of the early teams to secure a spot."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino (right) presents the FIFA Peace Award to US President Donald Trump at the 2026 World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C., US, on 5/12/2025. Photo: AP

FIFA President Gianni Infantino (right) presents the FIFA Peace Award to US President Donald Trump at the 2026 World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C., US, on 5/12/2025. Photo: AP

In a more pointed section of their message, the team, known as "Team Melli", directly challenged the host nation. "No one can expel the Iranian national team from the World Cup", the statement read. "On the contrary, the nation that should be disqualified is one that merely holds the title of host but is unable to ensure the safety of participating teams." This message was a direct rebuttal to President Trump's earlier post on Truth Social, where he stated Iran was welcome at the World Cup but questioned their participation for "their own safety and lives".

Iran was the third team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, following Japan and New Zealand. However, the country had previously announced a boycott of the tournament after US and Israeli airstrikes resulted in the death of supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

A day prior to the team's social media statement, Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali declared that the country "cannot participate in the World Cup" under any circumstances. The national team's subsequent statement, however, suggests Tehran's desire to assert its right to compete based on athletic merit, distinguishing this from the earlier government-level decision to boycott.

Previously, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated he had discussed the matter with President Trump, receiving assurances that the Iranian team remained welcome at the tournament. However, FIFA has not yet issued an official response following Minister Donyamali's declaration.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to be held from 11/6 to 19/7 across three co-host nations: the US, Mexico, and Canada. Should Iran officially withdraw, FIFA retains the authority to determine a replacement team. International media has suggested several options, including granting the spot to Iraq, which is considered the best-performing Asian team yet to secure direct qualification.

Hoang An (according to AS)