World Cup isn't behind Trump's push for Iran deal, White House WC chief tells 'Post' - interview

Andrew Giuliani, the senior White House official overseeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has firmly rejected any suggestion that the tournament influenced President Donald Trump's policies regarding Iran or his efforts to broker a ceasefire. Giuliani, who serves as executive director of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026, asserted that national security decisions were made independently of the World Cup preparations.

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I can tell you that it did not. It did not influence any decision from a national security perspective.

"I can tell you that it did not," Giuliani stated when asked if the World Cup had affected Trump's decision-making on Iran. "It did not influence any decision from a national security perspective." He emphasized the administration's commitment to security, noting, "We want the world to come here and enjoy the World Cup. But we do not want terrorists. We do not want hostile actors. We are making sure we are doubling and tripling the intelligence work to ensure that does not happen."

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We want the world to come here and enjoy the World Cup. But we do not want terrorists. We do not want hostile actors. We are making sure we are doubling and tripling the intelligence work to ensure that does not happen.

The Iranian team's participation presents a sensitive issue, particularly with matches scheduled in Los Angeles, which hosts a large Iranian diaspora. Giuliani confirmed that the administration had facilitated the entry of the Iranian team, with all 31 players receiving visas. They are permitted to enter the US one day prior to their games.

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The president signed an order last year that allowed the players to enter. All 31 players, 26 plus five alternates, received their visas.

Giuliani described the security arrangements as a "very well-coordinated operation" involving multiple US federal and local agencies, including Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, and the FBI. The goal is to ensure the safety of everyone in Los Angeles, including the Iranian national team, allowing them to compete without incident. The administration is also preparing to accommodate Iranian-American fans eager to support their team, recognizing the significance of the event for the local community.

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We have worked very closely with US Customs and Border Protection, with the Department of Homeland Security, with the FBI, and with local officials in Los Angeles to make sure this is being planned very carefully.