FIFA Confirms Iran Will Participate in 2026 World Cup Despite Ongoing Tensions
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirms Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite geopolitical tensions involving the US and Iran.
Prasanth Subramani
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran national football team will participate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup scheduled to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada starting in June.
His statement comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions following reported joint military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran, including the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on February 28. The situation has further intensified with retaliatory actions by Iran and warnings from Donald Trump regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the tensions, Infantino emphasized that Iran’s participation in the tournament is certain. He stated that the team has qualified on merit and represents its people, and that players are eager to compete on the global stage. He also expressed hope that the situation will stabilize soon.
The Iran national team has been placed in Group G, where it will face New Zealand national football team, Belgium national football team, and Egypt national football team on June 15, 21, and 26 respectively, with all matches scheduled to be held in the United States.
Infantino further stressed that sports should remain separate from politics and act as a bridge between nations. He noted that while global conflicts continue, football has the power to unite people and foster understanding beyond political differences.
