FIFA President Gianni Infantino Confirms Iran's Participation in World Cup Amid Regional Tensions
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has firmly stated that Iran will compete in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking at half-time during Iran's friendly match against Costa Rica in Turkey on Tuesday, Infantino emphasized his commitment to Iran's inclusion in the tournament.
Infantino's Strong Declaration on Iran's World Cup Role
"Iran will be at the World Cup... That's why we're here. We're delighted because they're a very, very strong team, I'm very happy," Infantino said, as reported by the AFP news agency. He went on to stress that Iran's matches will proceed as scheduled according to the official draw, with no alternative plans in place.
In a previous interview with N+, Infantino elaborated on FIFA's stance, highlighting Iran's qualification on the field and its passionate football culture. "Iran represents its people, those who live in Iran and those who live abroad. They qualified for this World Cup on the field; they were a team that qualified very early. It's a football-mad country. We want them to play; they will play in the World Cup, and there are no plans B, C, or D; it's plan A," he stated.
Infantino acknowledged the complex geopolitical situation but affirmed FIFA's efforts to ensure Iran competes under optimal conditions. "We live in the real world and we know what the situation is, which is very complicated, but we are working and we are going to make sure that Iran plays this World Cup in the best conditions," he added.
Background on Relocation Talks and Political Statements
Earlier, the Iranian Football Federation had engaged in negotiations with FIFA to potentially move Iran's World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, citing the war involving the US and Israel with Iran. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed readiness to host Iran's first-round matches if necessary.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is set to begin on June 11. Iran is scheduled to play its first Group G match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.
Infantino had previously mentioned that former US President Donald Trump assured Iran's team would be allowed to participate. However, Trump later reversed his position, suggesting Iran should not travel to the tournament "for their own life and safety." Iran responded defiantly, asserting that "no one can exclude Iran's national team from the World Cup."
Infantino's Unannounced Visit and Symbolic Gestures by Iran
Infantino attended Tuesday's match near Antalya in a low-profile manner, with his visit not announced in advance and media restricted from his seating area. This followed Iran's friendly against Nigeria in Belek last Friday, where players wore black armbands and carried school bags during the national anthem. This gesture honored the victims of an airstrike on a primary school in Minab, Iran, on February 28, which killed at least 170 people, including students and teachers.
The FIFA president's statements and actions underscore a commitment to keeping sports separate from political conflicts, focusing on Iran's rightful place in the World Cup based on athletic merit. As preparations continue, the football world watches closely how these developments will unfold in the lead-up to the tournament.
