Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, stating that the team’s involvement is assured despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Speaking at an economic conference organised by CNBC, the FIFA president said that Iran has qualified for the tournament and will represent its people on football’s biggest stage. He expressed hope that the situation in the Middle East would be peaceful by the time the event takes place.
“Iran is coming. They have qualified, and the players want to play,” Infantino said, underscoring FIFA’s position on sporting participation amid global conflicts.
He had previously echoed similar views in March during an event in Antalya, Turkey, where he attended a friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica.
According to the official schedule, Iran will play all three of its Group G matches in the United States, with two fixtures in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. The team’s base camp is expected to be in Tucson, Arizona.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran’s participation had earlier come under uncertainty following heightened regional tensions, but FIFA’s latest statement has clarified its position.