Donald Trump offered a blunt reaction when asked about Iran’s potential involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The United States president said he “really doesn’t care” whether the Iranian national team appears at the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
His remarks arrive as questions continue over Iran’s participation. The situation has introduced fresh uncertainty ahead of football’s biggest international event.
Trump says he ‘really doesn’t care’ if Iran attends World Cup
Iran has already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is expected to play group-stage matches in the United States. However, uncertainty has emerged about whether the team will ultimately take part.
Donald Trump addressed the issue directly while discussing Iran’s place in the tournament, noting that their participation in the World Cup isn’t of interest to him.
“I really don’t care whether Iran come to the World Cup. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
The remark came as speculation continues about whether Iran will follow through on its qualification and compete in the competition.
Iran’s World Cup participation still unresolved
Iran secured qualification for the 2026 tournament and is currently scheduled to compete during the group stage in the United States.
The expanded competition will feature 48 teams for the first time in World Cup history. Officials within Iran’s football federation have indicated the country could reconsider participation.
Federation president Mehdi Taj has suggested attendance may be unlikely under the current circumstances, though no final decision has been announced.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 through July 19 across host nations the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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