FIFA Confirms Iran Will Play 2026 World Cup Matches in United States

Toronto– FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and play its matches in the United States, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and logistical challenges.

Speaking at the FIFA Congress, Infantino emphasized that the tournament would proceed as planned, stating that all qualified teams, including Iran, would compete across designated host nations. The 2026 edition of the World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The confirmation comes amid concerns raised by Iranian authorities over playing matches on U.S. soil. Tehran had reportedly sought alternative venues, but FIFA declined to make changes to the schedule.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump indicated he had no objections to Iran’s participation, signaling a more flexible stance on the issue.

Complicating matters further, members of Iran’s football delegation were unable to attend the FIFA Congress in Canada after facing issues at immigration, despite reportedly holding valid visas. Canadian officials maintained that entry decisions are made individually, particularly for individuals linked to organizations designated as security concerns.

The situation highlights the broader challenges of hosting a multi-nation tournament involving 48 teams across three countries. Frequent cross-border travel for players, staff, and officials could present logistical and diplomatic hurdles, especially for nations facing visa restrictions or political tensions.

Despite these complexities, FIFA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the tournament proceeds smoothly, positioning the event as a platform for global unity through sport.