US allows Iranian athletes for World Cup, but bars IRGC-linked individuals

The United States has clarified its stance on Iran's participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that while the athletes themselves are welcome, individuals with ties to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will not be permitted entry. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that Washington has not issued any directives preventing Iranian players from competing, but expressed concerns about potential attendees who may have connections to the IRGC, which the US has designated as a foreign terrorist organization.

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Nothing from the US has told them they can't come.

President Donald Trump echoed this sentiment, indicating that his administration's priority is not to impede the athletes' participation. However, the underlying issue revolves around preventing individuals, potentially posing as journalists or trainers, with alleged ties to the IRGC from entering the US. This position reflects the broader US policy of isolating and sanctioning the IRGC.

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We may not be able to let them in, but not the athletes themselves.

Meanwhile, a proposal floated by Paolo Zampolli, a Trump envoy without official World Cup ties, suggesting Italy replace Iran in the tournament, has been met with strong rejection from Italian sports officials. Italy's sports minister deemed the idea "shameful" and "not appropriate," underscoring that qualification cannot be achieved through unofficial channels. Iran's participation had been in question following recent US and Israeli airstrikes, and while Trump has offered mixed signals, the current US position focuses on barring IRGC-linked individuals rather than banning the national team outright.

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They can't bring a bunch of IRGC terrorists into our country and pretend that they are journalists and athletic trainers.