FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will take part in this summer’s World Cup and will play its scheduled group-stage matches in the United States, dismissing speculation that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could affect the team’s involvement.
Speaking at half-time during Iran’s friendly against Costa Rica in Turkey on Tuesday, Infantino sought to allay any uncertainty surrounding the national team’s status.
“Iran will be at the World Cup,” Infantino said in an unannounced appearance at the match. “That’s why we’re here. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team. I’m very happy.”
He added, “I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine.”
The FIFA president also made clear that Iran’s fixtures would proceed as originally planned, stating that the team’s “matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.”
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to kick off on June 11. Iran has been placed in Group G and will open its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The team is then scheduled to face Belgium, also in Los Angeles, on June 21, before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 27.