Iran are one of 12 nations being placed on a United States travel ban as of Monday, but their soccer team will be allowed to compete in the World Cup next summer.
Trump resurrected the ban from his first term on Wednesday night, signing a document preventing nationals from a dozen countries from entering the US.
‘I must act to protect the national security and national interest of the United States and its people,’ Trump said in his proclamation.
But the White House has confirmed to Daily Mail that exemptions are in place for ‘athletes or members of athletic teams, including coaches and support staff, and athletes traveling for the World Cup, Olympics or other sporting events’.
Iran qualified for next summer’s tournament in March this year – one of only seven teams to officially make it as it stands.
The United States is hosting the 48-team competition next summer alongside Canada and Mexico.
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