FIFA Confirms Iran Will Still Compete in the 2026 World Cup in the United States
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Iranian national team will participate in the 2026 World Cup and play matches in the United States. This statement was made at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada, on Friday, May 1, 2026, despite heightened geopolitical tensions.
Infantino emphasized that there is no change to Iran's status as a participant. "It is certain that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course they will play in the United States," he asserted. This decision reinforces the principle of football as a neutral arena that does not bow to political pressure.
Iran is placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The team, nicknamed Team Melli, is scheduled to play group stage matches in June 2026 in several U.S. cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle. FIFA emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and football's role as a unifier.
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