FIFA President Infantino Confirms Iran Will Play in 2026 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and will play its scheduled matches in the United States. The announcement follows a period of uncertainty regarding the team’s participation due to the ongoing armed conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Speaking on March 31, 2026, Infantino dismissed speculation that the geopolitical tensions would force a change in the tournament’s organization. He stated that the matches will be played in the locations determined by the original draw.

Venue and Scheduling Certainty

The Iranian football federation had previously indicated that it was negotiating with FIFA to move its matches from the United States to Mexico. These discussions were driven by concerns regarding the safety of the squad and the appropriateness of competing in a country currently engaged in military conflict with Iran.

While Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed that Mexico was prepared to host Iran’s fixtures if necessary, Infantino has shut down those discussions. He insisted that the schedule remains set and that the team will not relocate.

Iran is scheduled to play three Group G matches in the following locations and dates:

• June 15: Against New Zealand in Los Angeles
• June 21: Against Belgium in Los Angeles
• June 26: Against Egypt in Seattle

The tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to begin on June 11, 2026.

FIFA’s Support and Team Status

Infantino demonstrated his support for the team by attending a friendly match in Turkey on March 31, 2026, where Iran defeated Costa Rica 5-0. During the match, Infantino spoke with the players and the coach, later stating everything is fine.

Iran will be at the World Cup. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team, I’m very happy.

Gianni Infantino

The presence of the FIFA president at the friendly was described as a public show of support for Team Melli amidst intense political pressure. During that match, Iranian players held photos of children killed in the war, as well as images of damaged historical buildings and hospitals.

Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, the vice president of the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI), emphasized that the federation would adhere to the governing body’s decisions. He noted that the federation will comply with whatever FIFA decides and acknowledged that host countries must honor their commitments to FIFA.

Infantino’s trip to the match in Turkey occurred while he was traveling from Mexico to Qatar. He has also reportedly spoken with President Trump regarding the situation in the Middle East.