Trump backs Iran’s World Cup bid amid U.S.-Iran crisis

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino said he met with President Donald Trump, who reiterated that Iran is welcome to compete in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran qualified for the tournament and will play group-stage games in U.S. venues, but its participation is in doubt amid ongoing U.S.-led airstrikes and regional tensions. The conflict has affected oil prices and the global economy. Infantino also highlighted football’s unifying value and previously awarded Trump the FIFA Peace Prize.