Donald Trump comments on Iran's potential withdrawal from 2026 World Cup
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
With the ongoing war tensions, Iran could consider boycotting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Amidst the rising war tensions in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump maintains that he “does not care” if Iran plays at the World Cup this summer.
Over the past five days, the Middle Eastern nation has been bombarded by American and Israeli strikes. They did retaliate by attacking US-allied states in the Gulf.
Together with Canada and Mexico, the United States is all set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Trump is leading the tournament’s PR campaign and is closely associated with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who gave him the “FIFA Peace Prize” three months ago.
Trump on if Iran withdraws from the World Cup
Iran has earned a spot in the World Cup for the fourth time in a row, but they may choose to withdraw from it. In response to a question about his opinions, Trump told Politico:
“I really don’t care. I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
The United Arab Emirates and Iraq will stand a chance to go to the World Cup if Iran withdraws. Before the final group match against Egypt in Seattle, Team Melli is scheduled to play New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles.
Trump took on the podium for the draw in Washington, DC, in December, where he received a medal and won the first-ever “FIFA Peace Prize.” He is anticipated to be front and centre for the World Cup, just as he did at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup last summer.
“If a participating member association withdraws… as a result of force majeure. FIFA shall decide on the matter at its sole discretion and take whatever action is deemed necessary,” according to Article 6 of the 2026 World Cup regulations.
Why could Iran withdraw from the World Cup?
Due to the ongoing war between Iran, the USA, and Israel.
Who could take their place in the competition?
UAE and Iraq are the possible candidate to take their place.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.