Keisuke Honda, former captain of the Japan national team, revealed on X that an American company abruptly withdrew as his sponsor, even though negotiations were nearly complete, all due to a single post.
On 12 March 2026, Honda posted on X (@kskgroup2017), "I know this is a very sensitive matter, but personally, I want them to participate in the World Cup," referring to the Iranian national team whose participation status remains uncertain.
The next day, 13 March 2026, Honda added, "It seems this statement caused the American company, which was about to agree on a World Cup advertising deal, to withdraw. A company that made a rotten decision without considering what really matters is not one we want to be with." He further stated, "Because many people are involved, vision and beliefs are very important; without them, there is no way to stand firm."
Regarding Iran's status in the 2026 World Cup, uncertainty remains amid Middle East tensions. Iran's Sports Minister announced the team will not participate, while U.S. President Donald Trump advised Iran against traveling for safety reasons. However, the Iranian Football Federation has yet to provide an official response to FIFA.