"The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP"
"Given that this corrupt government assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup, Ahmad Donyamali reportedly told Iranian state television, following the airstrikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of attacks."
President Trump announced that Iran's national soccer team is welcome to compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, but advised against their participation for safety reasons. Iran was scheduled to play matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium, plus a final group stage match against Egypt in Seattle. However, Iran's sports minister stated the country cannot participate following recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was succeeded by his son Mojtaba Khamenei. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Trump had assured him Iran would be welcome to compete.
Read at ESPN.com
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