Keisuke Honda says one American company pulled back from a potential advertising deal after he publicly supported Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former Japan international shared the update on social media after speaking out about the sensitive issue surrounding Iran's place in the tournament.
Honda has been vocal about his belief that football should remain open to all qualified teams despite geopolitical tensions.
Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Honda initially addressed the topic in a post shared on X , where he commented on discussions about whether Iran should take part in the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
"I know it's very sensitive thing but I personally want them participate the World Cup," Honda tweeted.
The comments came amid ongoing debates about Iran's presence at the 2026 tournament because the United States will be one of the host nations.
Iran have already qualified for the competition through Asian qualifying, but the broader political climate has sparked conversations about how the situation might unfold.
Honda later revealed that his statement appeared to have consequences for a potential commercial deal, explaining the situation in another post on X .
"It seems that an ad from a U.S. company, which was likely to be finalized in time for the World Cup, has been put on hold due to this statement.
"Companies that ignore the essence and make rotten decisions, we're better off without them," Honda said.
The former AC Milan and CSKA Moscow midfielder suggested the decision may have been linked to the reaction surrounding his remarks about Iran's participation.
Honda has long been outspoken on global issues related to sport and politics, often sharing his views openly with fans on social media.
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