The United States has announced that Iranian players will be allowed to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while imposing restrictions on individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the concern lies not with the athletes but with non-playing members who may have ties to the IRGC, which the US has designated as a foreign terrorist organization. President Donald Trump reiterated that the administration does not wish to penalize athletes amid geopolitical tensions. The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026, and will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This decision follows earlier calls for Italy to replace Iran in the competition, although there are no indications that Iran will be barred from participation. The backdrop of the World Cup is marked by ongoing regional tensions, including military actions involving the US and Israel against Iran, which have contributed to a fragile ceasefire in the region.