US President Donald Trump has said he “does not care” if Iran take part in this summer’s 2026 World Cup.
Trump’s comments come amid US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which has responded by launching attacks on US-allied states in the Gulf in an escalating conflict.
The US is co-hosting the World Cup which takes place between 11 June and 19 July, along with Canada and Mexico.
“I really don’t care,” Trump told Politico, external about Iran playing in the tournament.
“I think Iran is a very badly defeated country. They’re running on fumes.”
BBC Sport has approached Fifa for comment.