VANCOUVER, May 1, 2026 — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has once again confirmed that Iran will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and play its matches in the United States as originally scheduled.
Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, Infantino addressed ongoing speculation about Iran’s participation following recent tensions in the Middle East involving the United States and Israel. He made it clear that Iran’s place in the tournament is not in question.
“There is no doubt that Iran will play in the World Cup, and they will play in the United States,” Infantino said at the opening of the congress.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Concerns over Iran’s participation had grown since conflict erupted in the Middle East earlier this year.
Iranian officials had proposed moving their group-stage matches to Mexico due to political sensitivities, but FIFA rejected the request, maintaining the original schedule.
The issue drew further attention last week when a proposal surfaced suggesting Italy could replace Iran in the tournament. However, U.S. authorities distanced themselves from the idea, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iranian players would be welcomed.
Tensions also emerged ahead of the FIFA Congress, as Iran was the only one of the 211 member associations not present. Iranian Football Federation President Mehdi Taj and his delegation reportedly withdrew after encountering issues with Canadian border authorities in Toronto.
According to reports, the delegation cited inappropriate treatment by immigration officials. Canada has designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization, and individuals linked to it are not permitted entry.
Despite the diplomatic tensions and logistical challenges, FIFA remains firm in its stance that the tournament will proceed as planned, with all qualified teams participating.
