FIFA Confirms Iran Will Play 2026 World Cup in US Despite War Tensions, Infantino Says Football Must Unite Nations

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup and will play its group-stage matches in the United States, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions linked to the Iran war.

Speaking at the FIFA Congress on Thursday, Infantino stressed that football must remain a unifying force even in times of conflict.

“Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course Iran will play in the United States of America,” he said. “We have to unite. We have to bring people together. It is my responsibility.”

His comments come amid diplomatic friction, including reports that members of Iran’s delegation were denied entry into Canada for the congress, although officials later said the issue was “unintentional.” A source told ESPN that while two Iranian delegates were eventually allowed into Canada, the delegation ultimately did not attend the meeting after complications with immigration clearance.

Despite the absence, FIFA maintained that Iran remains fully eligible to compete, noting that there are currently no suspensions affecting member associations or grounds for exclusion.

Infantino also dismissed suggestions that Iran could be moved to play matches outside the United States or replaced in the tournament structure.

Iran is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign on June 15 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand. They will also face Egypt in Seattle before returning to Inglewood to play Belgium in their final group match.

The decision has drawn mixed reactions given the broader political climate, but FIFA leadership insists the tournament will proceed on sporting principles rather than geopolitical divisions.