Infantino Settles the Debate: Iran in the World Cup Despite the War
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran's national team will participate in the 2026 World Cup as usual, despite the tensions and ongoing conflict with the United States.
His statements came while he was with the Iranian national team in Turkey, where he emphasized that "there is no alternative plan" and that things will proceed according to the set program.
Despite previous Iranian demands to move the national team's matches to Mexico for security reasons, FIFA rejected this proposal and confirmed that Iran's matches would be held in the United States as scheduled. Mexico also expressed its readiness to host, but the international federation insisted on sticking to the original plan without modification.
The decision comes amid significant political controversy, especially following statements from American and Iranian officials regarding the safety of the players. In contrast, Infantino emphasized that football should be a means of unity and that FIFA will ensure the best conditions for the participation of all teams.
It is noted that Iran's participation was in doubt in recent weeks, with hints from Iranian officials about withdrawing, but FIFA insisted on its stance that all qualified teams must participate. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting from June 11, 2026.
His statements came while he was with the Iranian national team in Turkey, where he emphasized that "there is no alternative plan" and that things will proceed according to the set program.
Despite previous Iranian demands to move the national team's matches to Mexico for security reasons, FIFA rejected this proposal and confirmed that Iran's matches would be held in the United States as scheduled. Mexico also expressed its readiness to host, but the international federation insisted on sticking to the original plan without modification.
The decision comes amid significant political controversy, especially following statements from American and Iranian officials regarding the safety of the players. In contrast, Infantino emphasized that football should be a means of unity and that FIFA will ensure the best conditions for the participation of all teams.
It is noted that Iran's participation was in doubt in recent weeks, with hints from Iranian officials about withdrawing, but FIFA insisted on its stance that all qualified teams must participate. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting from June 11, 2026.