FIFA reaffirms Iran will participate in 2026 World Cup and play in United States
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed at the FIFA Congress that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup and play matches in the United States despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
World Cup Participation Confirmed
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and play soccer matches in the US, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions that have cast doubt over the team's participation. Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, British Columbia, on Thursday, Infantino addressed uncertainty that emerged after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran began in late February.
Match Schedule
As of now, Iran is scheduled to play its three group matches on the West Coast. The first two, against New Zealand and Belgium, are slated to take place at SoFi Stadium south of Los Angeles, and the third, against Egypt, is set for Lumen Field in Seattle.
Previous Uncertainty
Since the Iran war broke out, President Trump and Iranian officials have waffled regarding whether the Iranian men's team will take part in the tournament. At one point, Iranian officials explored whether to try moving the group games to Mexico, which is co-hosting the World Cup with the U.S. and Canada.