Iran invited to participate in FIFA World Cup by Donald Trump

FIFA President Gianni Infantino met with US President Donald Trump to discuss preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. During their meeting, Trump reiterated that Iran’s participation in the tournament would be welcome.

The meeting took place amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, where a conflict between the US and Iran has resulted in significant loss of life. The US and Israel launched an attack on Iran on February 28, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The attacks have had a profound impact on the region, with over 1,255 people killed and more than 12,000 wounded.

Iran’s football team was initially absent from a FIFA planning summit in Atlanta, Georgia, sparking concerns about their participation in the World Cup. However, Infantino has since confirmed that Trump assured him of Iran’s welcome.

Trump stated that he is not concerned about Iran’s participation due to the country’s current situation. If the US refuses to host the Iranian team, it could risk being removed as a World Cup host by FIFA.

FIFA officials have emphasized that the tournament will proceed despite the ongoing conflict. Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s World Cup chief operating officer, stated that the tournament is “too big” to be postponed and that everyone who has qualified will participate.

Iran’s football team is scheduled to play two group games in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. If both Iran and the US finish second in their respective groups, they could meet in a July 3 elimination match in Dallas.

Source: Al Jazeera