Fifa president Gianni Infantino has insisted that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, despite the Iranian Football Federation's absence from the Fifa congress in Vancouver due to visa issues. Infantino told delegates that Iran would play its group matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt as scheduled, emphasising the unifying power of football.
Iran's participation had been cast into doubt after US and Israeli airstrikes on the Islamic Republic in February, and following reports that IFF president Mehdi Taj was denied entry to Canada. Taj, a former commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), had been issued a temporary resident permit by Canada, which was later revoked. Canada has listed the IRGC as a terrorist entity since 2024.
Infantino acknowledged the situation as 'regrettable' but stressed that responsibility for entry decisions lies with national authorities. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Iranian players would be welcome but suggested some federation members with ties to the IRGC might face difficulties.
Iran's World Cup campaign begins on 15 June against New Zealand in Los Angeles, followed by Belgium on 21 June and Egypt in Seattle. A potential meeting with the USA in the round of 32 is possible if both finish second in their groups.
In his address, Infantino also defended Fifa's ticket sales process, noting 500 million requests and 90% of inventory sold. He announced projected revenues of $14 billion for the 2023-26 cycle, a 20% increase, and confirmed he will stand for re-election as Fifa president at next year's congress in Rabat, Morocco.
