Gianni Infantino told the CNBC Invest in America Forum on Wednesday that Iran will “for sure” participate in this summer’s World Cup, despite an ongoing war with the United States. The FIFA president insisted the team must be present because they qualified on sporting merit and represent their people. He recently visited the squad during a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, where he noted the players’ desire to compete.
Iran demands security guarantees for players and staff
Tehran’s participation isn’t a settled matter. Sport Minister Ahmed Donjamali has conditioned the team’s arrival on the U.S. Guaranteeing the safety of players and coaching staff. The final decision rests with Iran’s National Security Council in coordination with the government.
Team manager Amir Ghalenoei expressed confidence recently, stating there is currently no reason not to participate. He added that the team would do so, God willing.
FIFA blocked requests to move matches to Mexico
The Iranian Football Federation attempted to negotiate moving all U.S.-based matches to Mexico. FIFA rejected this proposal, citing the fact that such a change would disrupt the entire tournament schedule. Ahmad Donyamali later suggested moving the entire World Cup to Mexico or Canada to facilitate participation.
For more on this story, see Iran World Cup Prep: Training, Concerns & Azmoun Exclusion.
Tensions peaked after the conflict began in late February, involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Tehran briefly considered a full boycott. A fragile ceasefire eventually took effect on April 8 after weeks of airstrikes and retaliatory actions.
Infantino views the tournament as a tool for diplomacy. He argued that sports should exist outside of politics and that FIFA is attempting to build bridges where others won’t.
Emergency play-offs may replace Iran if they withdraw
FIFA is reportedly drafting a contingency plan should Iran pull out of the 48-team tournament. According to reports from Bola.com and ESPN’s Luiz Carlos Largo, the governing body is considering an additional play-off round featuring two teams from Europe and two from Asia.
Italy is viewed as the most likely European candidate for such a spot. In Asia, the United Arab Emirates holds the strongest record among teams that failed to qualify. If the UAE isn’t selected, the spot could potentially go to Oman or Indonesia.
This level of geopolitical interference in tournament brackets mirrors the volatility seen in previous cycles where national conflicts forced last-minute administrative pivots.
When does the 2026 World Cup begin?
The tournament starts on June 11, 2026, and concludes on July 19, 2026.
Which cities are scheduled to host Iran’s games?
Iran is scheduled to play two matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.
Who would replace Iran if they withdraw?
FIFA is considering a play-off involving two European and two Asian teams; Italy is cited as a top European candidate, although the UAE, Oman, or Indonesia could represent Asia.
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