Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump Welcomes Iran, Visa Delays Ahead of 2026 World Cup

5/21/2026

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström said in Turkey that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup.
Iran’s squad filed U.S. and Canadian visa applications in Ankara, but no visas have been issued.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran is welcome at tournament and raised safety concerns.
The squad will face Gambia on May 29 and cut the roster to 26 before the group stage in Los Angeles and Seattle.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 France hosted the FIFA World Cup, expanding the finals to 32 teams for the first time and running from 10 June to 12 July. Iran earned its spot by beating Australia on 29 November 1997, marking its return since 1978 and joining the tournament’s 64 matches. The 2026 draw repeats this legacy as FIFA confirms Iran’s participation amid new visa hurdles.

1 of 2

Story summary

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström said in Turkey that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup.
Iran’s squad filed U.S. and Canadian visa applications in Ankara, but no visas have been issued.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran is welcome at tournament and raised safety concerns.
The squad will face Gambia on May 29 and cut the roster to 26 before the group stage in Los Angeles and Seattle.

1 / 2