World Cup 2026: No problem with Iran athletes - US Secretary of State clarifies

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that Iranian athletes are welcome to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on American soil but warned that other individuals accompanying the delegation may not be granted entry.

Speaking at the White House amid ongoing military tensions between the two nations, Rubio addressed growing uncertainty over Iran's participation in the tournament, which is co-hosted by the US.

"The problem with Iran would be not their athletes. It would be some of the other people that they want to bring with them," Rubio said. "We may not be able to let them in… but not the athletes themselves. If they decide not to come on their own, it's 'cause they decided not to come."

Iran have been drawn in Group C alongside New Zealand, Egypt, and Belgium, with all their matches scheduled to be played in the United States. Rubio's comments suggest that while players will be allowed to compete, visa and security restrictions could apply to coaches, officials, or other members of the Iranian entourage.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has clarified that Iranian athletes are welcome to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on American soil, but warned that other individuals accompanying the delegation may not be granted entry.

Speaking at the White House amid ongoing military tensions between the two nations, Rubio addressed growing uncertainty over Iran's participation in the tournament, which is co-hosted by the US.

"The problem with Iran would be, not their athletes. It would be some of the other people that they want to bring with them," Rubio said. "We may not be able to let them in… but not the athletes themselves. If they decide not to come on their own, it's 'cause they decided not to come."

Iran have been drawn in Group C alongside New Zealand, Egypt, and Belgium, with all their matches scheduled to be played in the United States. Rubio's comments suggest that while players will be allowed to compete, visa and security restrictions could apply to coaches, officials, or other members of the Iranian entourage.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story