Infantino confirms Iran will play World Cup matches in United States despite ongoing conflict
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran national football team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and play their matches in the United States as originally scheduled, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Infantino made the remarks during a visit to Iran’s international friendly against Costa Rica national football team in Turkey, where he expressed confidence that preparations remain on track.
“Iran will be at the World Cup,” Infantino said, emphasizing that the tournament’s structure and match locations would not be altered.
No Change to Tournament Plans
According to Infantino, Iran’s group-stage fixtures will take place in the United States in line with the official draw for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Iran are scheduled to begin their campaign against New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15. They will then face Belgium national football team on June 21, also in Los Angeles, before concluding the group stage against Egypt national football team in Seattle on June 27.
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Uncertainty Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Iran’s participation had been under scrutiny following the outbreak of conflict involving the United States and Israel earlier this year. Concerns over safety, travel logistics, and diplomatic relations led to discussions about potentially relocating Iran’s matches.
The Iranian football federation confirmed it had entered talks with FIFA regarding the possibility of hosting their fixtures in Mexico instead. Mexican authorities also indicated their willingness to accommodate such a scenario if required.
However, Infantino’s latest comments appear to put those discussions to rest, reinforcing FIFA’s position that the tournament will proceed as planned.
- Read also: Iran national team responds to Trump remarks, says ‘no one can exclude’ it from the World Cup
Political Reactions and FIFA’s Stance
The situation has also drawn political attention. Donald Trump previously suggested that Iran’s team should avoid traveling to the United States due to safety concerns, a statement that was strongly rejected by Iranian officials.
In response, Iran maintained that no external party has the authority to exclude its national team from the competition. FIFA has consistently reiterated its neutral stance, stressing that football should remain separate from political conflicts.
Speaking earlier from Zurich, Infantino underlined the organization’s broader mission: to ensure all qualified teams participate while promoting unity through sport.
Football as a Bridge
Infantino acknowledged the complexities surrounding the situation but emphasized FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity and continuity.
“FIFA cannot resolve geopolitical conflicts,” he noted, “but we are committed to using football as a way to build bridges and foster mutual respect.”
The governing body has maintained that the World Cup should serve as a global platform for competition and connection, even during periods of international tension.
Symbolic Moments on the Pitch
Iran’s recent fixtures have also reflected the emotional weight of the ongoing conflict. During a friendly match in Turkey, players wore black armbands and held symbolic tributes to victims of violence back home.
The gestures highlighted the human side of the crisis, reinforcing how global events can intersect with sport in powerful ways.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With confirmation now in place, attention will shift back to football. Iran remain one of Asia’s strongest teams and will look to make an impact in a competitive group.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the situation underscores the delicate balance between sport, politics, and global events, while also reaffirming FIFA’s determination to keep the game on the pitch.
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