FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reiterated that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, despite ongoing tensions with the United States. The tournament begins on June 11, with Iran scheduled to play all three group stage matches in the US, a country currently in conflict with Iran.
Iran qualified for the 48-team tournament and are placed in Group G, facing New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle. Since the conflict between Iran and Israel and the US escalated in late February, there have been calls for Iran's exclusion or relocation of matches. US President Donald Trump stated it would not be 'appropriate' for Iran to compete, while an envoy suggested Italy replace Iran.
Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Infantino said: 'Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course Iran will play in the United States of America. The reason for that is very simple, dear friends, is because we have to unite. We have to bring people together. It is my responsibility.'
The announcement came hours after Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj was denied entry into Canada, reportedly due to his affiliation with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran was the only nation not represented at the Congress, with the country noted as 'absent' during a role call. Infantino noted 'there are no suspended member associations or any grounds for expulsion.'
Infantino has consistently defended Iran's participation, stating last month: 'We want Iran to play, and Iran will play at the World Cup. There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represent their people – both those living in Iran and those living abroad.'
