‘No One Can Exclude Us From World Cup’ – Iran

Iran’s national football team has issued a defiant response to U.S. President Donald Trump and recent controversy over the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that no country or leader has the authority to exclude the team from the tournament.

The statement came after Trump warned that Iran’s participation in the World Cup hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada may not be appropriate due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and security concerns.

In a message circulated on Iranian social media channels, the team reaffirmed its qualification for the World Cup and stressed that the competition is organised by FIFA, not individual nations. “No one can exclude us from the World Cup,” the statement said.

Some reports suggest the Iranian response also criticised safety assurances from the U.S., adding that if any team were to be removed, it should be the host nation due to its inability to guarantee security for all participants amid rising tensions.

Iran’s participation has been the subject of intense debate in recent days, with conflicting messages from government officials and international figures about whether the team will ultimately compete in the 48-nation tournament.

FIFA has maintained that all qualified teams are welcome to participate, but the situation highlights broader geopolitical strains affecting global sport and diplomacy as the 2026 World Cup approaches.