FIFA confirms Iran’s participation in 2026 tournament despite tensions

Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Iranian national team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that its matches will be held in the United States according to the official tournament schedule.

Speaking to reporters following Iran’s 5–0 friendly victory over Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkey, Infantino said: “Iran will be at the World Cup. We are very happy because they are a very strong team.”

He added that matches would take place in their designated venues based on the tournament draw, noting that he had met with the players and coaching staff and that “everything is fine.”

In parallel, Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, first vice president of the Iranian Football Federation, affirmed that Iran would comply with FIFA regulations and participate in the tournament regardless of the host country.

Speaking ahead of the friendly match, Nabi said that nothing prevents Iran from taking part, adding: “We will play in the World Cup in whichever country FIFA chooses, whether it be the United States, Mexico, or Canada.”

The Iranian national team is currently holding a training camp in Antalya in preparation for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026, marking the first edition to feature 48 teams.

Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, respectively, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 as part of its World Cup fixtures.