President Donald Trump said he supports the decision by FIFA to allow Iran to compete in the 2026 World Cup and play matches in the United States.

The move is significant because it separates high-level athletic competition from the strained diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iran. It signals a commitment to sporting neutrality despite ongoing political tensions.

Speaking during a press briefing in the White House press room on April 30, 2024, Trump responded to questions regarding Iran's participation. He said, "Let them play" [1].

Trump said the decision aligns with the principle of letting teams compete on the field rather than being excluded for political reasons [1]. This stance follows the confirmation that Iran will play its 2026 World Cup matches within the United States [4].

FIFA President Gianni Infantino previously addressed the broader goal of the tournament, saying, "We must unite through soccer" [2]. The Iranian national soccer team also expressed its resolve via an official account, saying, "No one can exclude us" [3].

While the president expressed support for the team's presence, he noted a different perspective when asked about the possibility of Iran winning the tournament. Trump said, "I’m going to have to worry about that" [2].

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place during June and July of 2026 [5].

“"Let them play."”

This decision suggests a pragmatic approach to the 2026 World Cup, where the U.S. government is prioritizing the operational success and international legitimacy of the tournament over the use of athletic sanctions. By permitting Iran to compete on U.S. soil, the administration avoids a potential diplomatic clash with FIFA and adheres to the organization's mandate of political neutrality in global sports.