WANA (Apr 17) – A senior U.S. government official has stated that the administration of President Donald Trump expects Iran’s national football team to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House’s FIFA World Cup task force, said that despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, U.S. officials are moving forward with plans that include Iran’s participation in the tournament.
Speaking at the White House, Giuliani noted that he was not speaking on behalf of the Iranian team, but emphasized that President Trump had personally extended an invitation for the team to come to the United States. He also referred to recent remarks by FIFA leadership, suggesting expectations that Iran will take part in the competition.
His comments signal growing optimism following weeks of uncertainty over Iran’s potential participation in the tournament.
According to Giuliani, the U.S. government anticipates that Iran will arrive by June 10 for a training camp in Tucson, Arizona. The team is then expected to travel to Los Angeles for matches against New Zealand and Belgium, before heading to Seattle to face Egypt.
Giuliani also mentioned a planned friendly match between Iran and Puerto Rico ahead of the World Cup, adding that, to his knowledge, there have been no changes to those arrangements.
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