RRI.CO.ID, Washington D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump said he respects FIFA’s decision regarding the participation of Iran’s national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As reported by tvrinews on Saturday, May 2, 2026, Trump affirmed he has no objection to Iran, known as Team Melli, competing in the United States as one of the tournament’s host countries.

“He stated that if it is FIFA’s decision, then it is not a problem. Do whatever you want,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News at the White House.

Previously, Trump had advised against Iran’s presence on security grounds, although he did not explicitly reject the team’s participation. Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. All group matches are scheduled to take place in the United States.

At the FIFA Annual Congress held in Vancouver, Canada, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran’s status as a participant remains unchanged. He emphasized the importance of making the World Cup a symbol of global unity.

“He conveyed that it is important to show that football continues and includes the Iranian team. Now, it is even more important to show the world that we are united and can come together in a peaceful environment,” Infantino said.

Responding to the statement, Trump also signaled support for FIFA’s authority. “He stated, let Iran play. Gianni is fantastic and a friend of mine,” Trump said.

Trump’s latest remarks are seen as easing pressure on FIFA, which had previously been urged to ensure security guarantees for the Iranian delegation. Earlier, Iran’s Minister of Sports Ahmad Donyamali criticized Trump’s previous statement, saying it did not provide certainty on security.

“He stressed that the security of all national teams participating must be guaranteed. Otherwise, FIFA should not allow World Cup matches to be held in the United States,” Donyamali said.