Iran is set to participate in the 2026 World Cup, with their group matches scheduled to take place in the United States, according to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Infantino confirmed this news at half-time of Iran’s friendly match against Costa Rica in Turkey, stating, “Iran will be at the World Cup… That’s why we’re here. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team, I’m very happy”
Iran’s matches will be played as scheduled, with their first Group G game against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 27. The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on June 11
The Iranian football federation had previously requested to relocate their matches to Mexico due to safety concerns related to the ongoing Middle East war. However, Infantino emphasized that Iran’s “matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw”
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had offered to host Iran’s first-round matches if needed, but FIFA has maintained that the original schedule will be followed. Infantino initially stated that US President Donald Trump had given assurances that the Iranian team would be welcome, but Trump later expressed concerns about the team’s safety
Iran has responded to Trump’s comments, stating that “no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup”. Infantino has reiterated FIFA’s commitment to promoting peace and fair play through football, saying, “FIFA can’t solve geopolitical conflicts, but we are committed to using the power of football and the World Cup to build bridges and promote peace”
