U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States does not oppose Iran’s participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the Trump administration has placed restrictions on Iranian athletes inviting individuals associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to the tournament.
Recently, Paolo Zampolli, a special representative for President Trump, proposed to FIFA leadership that Italy’s national team should replace Iran in the tournament lineup. This suggestion was met with strong disapproval from Italian officials, who labeled it “shameful,” asserting that Italy had failed to qualify and thus should not participate.
Rubio responded to the Italian proposal, reiterating that while the U.S. does not object to Iran’s presence at the World Cup, it cannot ensure entry for all Iranian representatives linked to the national team.
“The issue with Iran is not its athletes. The problem lies with certain individuals they want to bring along. If Iranian players choose not to come, it will be their decision. However, we cannot allow a group of IRGC terrorists to enter our country under the guise of journalists or trainers. We can deny them entry, but not the players themselves,” Rubio stated.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been in discussions to ensure that Iran’s team can participate in the tournament despite the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Representatives from Iran and Infantino have reportedly reached an agreement for the team to play their matches as scheduled.
If Iran ultimately does not participate in the 2026 World Cup, FIFA, under Article 6 of its regulations, has the authority to invite another country of its choosing. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is expected to advocate for a replacement from Asia, with the United Arab Emirates being a primary candidate after losing to Iraq in the qualifying playoffs last November.
The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to kick off on June 11. Iran’s first match against New Zealand is scheduled for June 16 in Los Angeles.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified the U.S. stance on Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing restrictions on certain individuals linked to the IRGC. Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is working to ensure Iran's team competes as planned.