Donald Trump says he is not concerned about possible Iran withdrawal from 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

“I really do not care. I think Iran is a very weakened country. They are running out of steam.”

Asked by Politico on Tuesday about Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July, the United States president made the comments. The report said Iran is one of two countries subject to his most restrictive travel ban, enacted by executive order in June, with exemptions for World Cup squads and staff, while other visas are decided case by case by the State Department.

His remarks came as the war in the Middle East has dominated headlines since Saturday.

Iran were the only nation to miss a FIFA planning summit for World Cup participants held this week in Atlanta, heightening doubts over their involvement this summer.

Iran have been drawn in Group G with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. Federation president Mehdi Taj said the scale of American and Israeli attacks does not bode well for the tournament.

Their group fixtures are scheduled in the United States, two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If both the US and Iran finish second in their groups, they could meet in the round of 32 on 3 July in Dallas.

Iran would almost certainly be replaced if they withdrew from the tournament.

Source: L'Équipe