Iran to participate in US-hosted World Cup despite ongoing conflict

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, despite concerns raised by the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel with Iran.

According to FIFA’s draw schedule, Iran is set to play its first Group G game against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. They are also scheduled to play Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 27.

In a statement made during a press conference at the World Cup warm-up match in Turkey, Infantino assured that Iran’s participation is guaranteed. He stated that the matches will be played according to the draw schedule, without any changes or relocations.

Earlier, there were concerns raised by the Iranian football federation and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum about relocating Iran’s World Cup matches from the US to Mexico due to the ongoing conflict. However, Infantino has now confirmed that all teams will participate in the tournament as scheduled.

FIFA had previously stated its commitment to hosting the World Cup “as scheduled” with all teams taking part. The organization also emphasized its role in promoting peace and unity through football, while acknowledging that it cannot resolve geopolitical conflicts.

Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup has been subject to uncertainty due to the conflict with the US and Israel. However, Infantino’s statement has provided reassurance that Iran will indeed participate in the tournament as planned.

Source: Al Jazeera