FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and compete in the U.S. as originally scheduled, amid ongoing geopolitical concerns.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and compete in the U.S. as originally scheduled, amid ongoing geopolitical concerns.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and play its group-stage matches in the United States, maintaining the tournament’s original schedule despite political tensions.
Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Infantino stated unequivocally that Iran’s participation remains unchanged. “Of course Iran will be participating… and of course Iran will play in the United States of America,” he said, reinforcing FIFA’s stance on the matter.
The decision comes amid uncertainty linked to geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States, which had raised questions about travel, security, and venue arrangements. Iranian officials had earlier suggested relocating their matches to Mexico, but FIFA rejected the proposal and insisted the original draw would stand.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is scheduled to begin in June, with Iran already placed in the group-stage fixtures set to be played on U.S. soil.
Despite diplomatic complications—including visa concerns for certain officials—FIFA has emphasized its commitment to ensuring all qualified teams participate, framing the tournament as a unifying global event.
Iran’s involvement had been under scrutiny following regional conflicts and political tensions earlier in 2026. However, FIFA has consistently maintained that sporting decisions will remain separate from geopolitical disputes, with all matches proceeding according to the official schedule.
FIFA says preparations will continue as planned, with Iran expected to compete in the United States when the tournament kicks off.