FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and play its scheduled matches in the United States, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Iran’s involvement had been cast into doubt following reported military escalations involving the United States and Israel earlier this year. However, Infantino insisted the team would honour its fixtures against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt.
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“Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course, Iran will play in the United States of America,” Infantino said at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada.
He emphasised that the decision aligns with football’s role in uniting people globally, describing the sport as a platform that can bridge divisions even in times of conflict.
Iran qualified for the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The team is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
A request by Iran to move its matches to Mexico, one of the co-host nations, was reportedly rejected by FIFA.
However, uncertainty persists. Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, suggested the country may not participate “under any circumstances”, citing political tensions and security concerns following recent events in the region.
U.S. President Donald Trump had said earlier that Iran would be welcomed, but attending the tournament might not be appropriate “for their own life and safety”.
Despite the off-field tensions, FIFA maintains that Iran remains part of the tournament lineup as preparations continue for the expanded 48-team competition.
