The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) maintained on Monday that Iran’s men’s national team remains committed to competing in the forthcoming World Cup in North America, despite significant security concerns. These concerns were amplified following a statement from President Donald Trump, who cautioned that the squad’s “life and safety” could be jeopardized by attending the tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The feasibility of Iran’s participation has been under intense scrutiny since the outbreak of hostilities following U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28.
During a press briefing at the AFC’s central offices in Kuala Lumpur, General Secretary Windsor Paul John clarified the current status of the team. He noted that while the situation is being closely observed, there has been no formal indication of a withdrawal.
“As far as we know, Iran is playing,” said Windsor Paul John, the Asian Football Confederation’s general secretary. “We are monitoring whether they are playing or not, but at the moment they are. There is no official information that they are not playing,” he told a press conference at the AFC’s headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.
Windsor further emphasized the AFC’s desire to see the “top-tier” Iranian side feature in the global competition, expressing hope that prevailing diplomatic and security hurdles can be navigated successfully.
“So we hope that they will solve their issues… and be able to participate in the World Cup,” he said.
The warning from the American President was delivered via his Truth Social platform, where he questioned the appropriateness of the team’s presence given the current volatile climate.
Trump, in a post on his Truth Social Platform said the Iranian team was welcome, “but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety.”
Simultaneously, a complex situation involving the Iranian women’s national team has unfolded in Australia. Following the Asian Cup, several delegation members initially sought asylum after being labeled “traitors” in their home country for a silent protest during the national anthem. However, the team captain has since rescinded her asylum application, a move reportedly mirrored by others, leaving only two members currently seeking to stay in Australia. Reports from a Persian-language broadcaster and former players suggest that these reversals were coerced through threats directed at the players’ families, though Iranian officials have countered by accusing Australian authorities of attempting to induce defections.
The players returning to Iran are presently stationed in Kuala Lumpur while logistical arrangements are finalized. Regarding the status of the female athletes, Windsor stated:
“It’s their decision and we will support that,” he said.
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