FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the Iran national football team will participate in the upcoming World Cup, with their matches set to be played in the United States as originally scheduled.
“Iran will be at the World Cup,” Infantino said. “We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team… The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.” The announcement comes amid uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel.
Earlier, Iran’s football federation had indicated it was “negotiating” with FIFA to relocate its matches to Mexico over safety concerns. However, Infantino dismissed the possibility of relocation, stating that arrangements would remain unchanged.
Iran are scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, respectively, before taking on Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The tournament, which begins on June 11, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Despite FIFA’s assurances, concerns had been raised by political leaders. Donald Trump had previously suggested Iran would be “welcome to the World Cup,” but also hinted participation could pose risks “for their own life and safety.”
Iranian officials, including Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, had also questioned whether the country was in a position to take part.
Nonetheless, Infantino said he had personally engaged with the team. “I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine,” he added. The decision confirms Iran’s place in the tournament, despite wider geopolitical tensions casting uncertainty over international sporting events.
