Trump: US Will Not Block Iran's Participation in World Cup

Donald Trump stated that the United States will not prevent Iranian athletes from participating in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The statement comes amid discussions about a possible replacement of Iran by Italy due to geopolitical tensions.

Trump emphasized that the US does not wish to influence Iranian athletes planning to compete in the tournament. However, he expressed concerns about accompanying individuals who may have ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), stressing that their entry into the US may not be permitted.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that there is no American ban on Iran's participation in the World Cup. Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand, Egypt, and Belgium in matches to be held in the US.

Rubio clarified that the decision on whether Iranian athletes will travel to the United States belongs to Tehran, but warned that individuals associated with the IRGC, posing as journalists or coaches, will not be allowed entry.