Donald Trump has been urged to publicly back Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Sports commentator Clay Travis said the president should make clear that any conflict is with Iran’s leadership rather than its people.
Iran have already qualified for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Travis argued that preventing the team from competing would send the wrong message.
Clay Travis wants Donald Trump to support Iran’s place at 2026 World Cup
Travis shared his view on social media, calling for a clear stance from Trump.
“I believe Donald Trump should come out strongly in favor of Iran playing in the World Cup this summer,” he wrote.
“Sends a strong message that our war isn’t with Iranian people, but with their despotic leaders. Qualifying for World Cup is a huge national honor, team shouldn’t be penalized.”
Iran secured qualification through the Asian confederation, earning their place on sporting merit.
The World Cup remains one of the biggest global platforms in sport, with national teams representing their countries on the international stage.
Travis’ argument centres around separating political leadership from athletes representing their nation.
Iran women’s national team remain silent during anthem
Iran’s women’s national team also drew attention ahead of their Asian Cup Group A match against South Korea on the Gold Coast.
The players stood in line as the national anthem played, but did not sing.
The fixture came shortly after confirmed US-Israeli strikes killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting questions about the broader political backdrop surrounding the team.
Athletes have increasingly found themselves navigating complex political environments.
The silence during the anthem was widely interpreted as symbolic, though no official statement was released by the squad.
The intersection of politics and international football continues to shape the discussion ahead of the 2026 tournament.
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