The FIFA president stands firm.
Iran is set to compete at the World Cup. According to The Mirror, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has rejected a request from U.S. President Donald Trump to replace Iran’s national team with Italy at the upcoming World Cup.
Reports indicate that Infantino believes Iran has earned its place at the tournament, regardless of any displeasure from Trump. He emphasized that football traditions and values should remain uninfluenced by political circumstances.
FIFA maintains that Iran’s participation in the World Cup is non-negotiable. The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11 and will be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Iran has qualified for the competition, which will feature 48 teams and will see them play in Group G against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.