Infantino backs Iran’s place at 2026 World Cup in United States

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said that Iran national football team will still take part in the 2026 World Cup and will play their matches in the United States as planned, even with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Infantino spoke during a friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica in Turkey. He said he is happy with the team and confirmed that everything is in order. According to him, Iran will play their matches in the locations already decided after the tournament draw.

The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by United States, Mexico, and Canada, and will begin on June 11.

Iran is scheduled to play:

New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15

Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21

Egypt in Seattle on June 27

There were earlier concerns about Iran’s participation because of the war involving the US and Israel, which started on February 28. Iran had even discussed with FIFA the possibility of moving their matches to Mexico.

Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, also said her country was ready to host Iran’s matches if needed.

At one point, former US President Donald Trump said Iran’s team might not be safe traveling to the US. However, Iran responded strongly, saying no one can stop them from playing in the World Cup.

Infantino has repeated that FIFA wants all qualified teams to take part and that football should help promote peace, even during difficult times.

Meanwhile, Iran recently played friendly matches in Turkey, including one against Nigeria. During the games, Iranian players wore black armbands to honour victims of a deadly airstrike on a school in Iran, which killed many students and teachers.

Overall, FIFA is standing by its decision: Iran will play in the World Cup as scheduled.