The United States has confirmed that Iran’s football team will be allowed to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Washington has made it clear that delegates with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will not be allowed to enter.
Rumors about Iran’s involvement had increased since the outbreak of war between the US and Israel and Iran in February. All of Iran’s group stage matches are scheduled to be played in the United States, which has raised questions about whether the team will be allowed to participate in the tournament.
Rubio’s statement
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that “nothing from the US has told them they can’t come.” He emphasized that the athletes themselves are not the issue, but warned that people linked to the IRGC will be banned. “They cannot bring a group of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend they are journalists and athletic trainers,” Rubio said.
President Donald Trump, speaking alongside Rubio, added that his administration “would not want to affect the athletes,” distancing the administration from suggestions that Iran be barred from the competition.
Italy Rejects the Proposal
Earlier this week, US envoy Paolo Zampolli suggested that Italy, which failed to qualify for the World Cup, replace Iran. The idea was quickly rejected by Italian officials. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi said, “You qualify on the field,” while Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called the proposal “shameful.” The Italian Olympic Committee also rejected the idea, saying participation must be earned.
The position of Iran
Iran qualified for the World Cup for the fourth time in a row last year. It asked FIFA to move its matches to Mexico, but the governing body rejected the proposal. Iranian officials now say preparations for the World Cup are underway, with the Ministry of Sports ensuring that there are preparations for the team’s participation.
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