FIFA President Claims Trump Welcomed Iranian Team to US-Hosted World Cup Amid Tensions

Washington D.C. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that US President Donald Trump assured that the Iranian national football team would be welcomed to participate in the World Cup hosted by the United States.

 Infantino shared that he met with Trump on Tuesday and discussed preparations for the FIFA World Cup set to begin in June. The issue of Iran qualifying for the tournament was also raised during the meeting.

Infantino mentioned in an Instagram post that Trump reiterated, 'The Iranian team is welcome to play in the tournament hosted by the United States.' However, it remains unclear whether the Iranian team will actually participate. Mehdi Taj, President of the Iranian Football Federation, recently indicated uncertainty regarding participation following recent military tensions.

He told the sports portal Varzesh3, 'After this attack, we are not in a position to look forward to the World Cup with enthusiasm.' Previously, Iranian supporters' participation in the World Cup had become complicated due to US-Iran tensions. It was reported that many Iranian supporters would be denied visas to enter the US to watch the tournament due to US travel restrictions.

Last year, more than half of the Iranian delegation members had their visas rejected for the World Cup draw ceremony held in Washington D.C., almost leading them to boycott the event. Nevertheless, Infantino portrayed the World Cup as an opportunity to unite the world. 'In the current tense situation, there is a need for a program that unites the world, and football connects the world,' he said.