Iran to Participate in World Cup with Matches in the US
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the World Cup and that their matches will be held in the United States as originally scheduled. This announcement comes amid ongoing uncertainty regarding Iran's involvement due to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Earlier this month, the Iranian Football Federation indicated it was "negotiating" with FIFA to move its World Cup matches from the US to Mexico. However, Infantino reassured that the team would compete as planned.
"Iran will be at the World Cup," Infantino told AFP. "We're delighted because they're a very, very strong team, I'm very happy. The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw."
Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15 and 21 June, respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on 26 June. The tournament, commencing on 11 June, is jointly hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that Mexico is prepared to host Iran's matches if necessary. Nevertheless, Infantino, who attended Iran's 5-0 friendly victory against Costa Rica in Turkey on Tuesday, emphasized that Iran will participate as planned.
"I've seen the team, I've spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine," he said.
'Clearest Indication of No Boycott' - Analysis
On a significant day in FIFA's calendar, when the final six nations to qualify for the 2026 World Cup were confirmed, Infantino was present in Antalya to witness Iran's decisive 5-0 win over Costa Rica. This event serves as the clearest indication that Iran does not intend to boycott the World Cup.
Following the outbreak of war, FIFA had remained largely silent, but Infantino has now dismissed any boycott speculation.
"Iran will be at the World Cup... that's why we're here," he stated.
He further clarified that the tournament schedule will remain unchanged. This suggests confidence that the conflict will conclude before Iran's first match against New Zealand on 15 June in Los Angeles.
World Cup Risks Being 'Stage for Repression' - Amnesty
Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump posted on social media that Iran would be "welcome to the World Cup" but also indicated concerns about their safety, suggesting they should not participate "for their own life and safety."
In response, Iran asserted that the US should forfeit its place in the tournament. Additionally, Iran's Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, stated that the country is not currently in a position to participate in the tournament.
