Donald Trump expressed concerns regarding the safety of the Iranian team at the tournament in the USA, despite the welcome message.

President Donald Trump stated on social media that the Iranian national football team is welcome at the World Cup, but emphasized that their participation could pose a risk to the players' lives and safety. This statement contradicts the previous message sent by Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who confirmed that Iranian players will be well received.

The White House did not clarify what Trump meant by "their lives and safety," leaving room for speculation regarding possible threats following tensions between the United States and Iran. Iran, which will play matches in California and Seattle, faces a travel ban in the U.S., but athletes are exempt from this. Iranian leaders have stated that participation in the tournament is "impossible."