FIFA President Gianni Infantino has put an end to three months of intense speculation regarding Iran’s presence at the upcoming tournament. Opening the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada, Infantino delivered a definitive statement confirming that the Iranian national team will participate normally and play its matches on American soil.
“I want to state unequivocally that Iran will, of course, participate in the 2026 World Cup,” the Swiss official declared. “Naturally, Iran will play in the United States without any obstacles.”
Infantino emphasized that football’s core mission is to unite people and transcend conflicts, stating that excluding Iran would contradict the “supreme goal of sports.”
Donald Trump’s Response: “I am OK with it”
From the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the media regarding the controversial topic. While he had previously advised the Iranian team against traveling to the U.S., his tone appeared to shift following Infantino’s confirmation.
When asked about Infantino’s stance, Trump replied: “Infantino said Iran will participate? If he said that, then I am okay with it. I told him to do what he wants.”
The President added, “They probably have a good team… It’s hard to believe, actually, but I think they should be allowed to play.”
The Official Stand of the Iranian Football Federation
Despite becoming the first nation to technically announce its preliminary squad for the tournament, the Iranian Football Federation has yet to release a formal confirmation of its participation, sticking to general statements.
Earlier, Iran reportedly explored the possibility of moving its group-stage matches to Mexico. While Mexican officials were open to the idea, FIFA remains firm that the schedule will proceed in the United States as originally planned.
While the Iranian Minister of Sports previously hinted at a possible withdrawal, the latest reports from Tehran suggest that the “Persian Stars” will indeed feature in this historic 48-team edition of the World Cup.
Group Stage Outlook
Iran has been drawn into Group L alongside Egypt, Belgium, and New Zealand.
Iran’s Opening Match:
- Opponent: New Zealand
- Date: June 16, 2026
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California (Los Angeles area).
