FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, despite escalating regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking at FIFA's Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, Infantino stated that Iran's participation was assured and that the team would face the United States during the tournament.
Official Statement
"Let me start by confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026," Infantino said. The announcement comes amid heightened geopolitical strain involving Iran, including a US naval blockade of Iranian ports and continued military tensions involving Israel and its regional allies.
Political Context
Earlier on Thursday, Iran's president Masoud Pezeshkian described the US blockade as "intolerable," warning it amounted to an extension of military operations against the country. Meanwhile, fighting has intensified along Israel's northern front, with Israeli forces reporting deeper incursions into southern Lebanon and continued strikes targeting Hezbollah positions.
Tournament Preparations
Despite the volatile security situation, FIFA has signaled that preparations for the expanded 2026 tournament, to be hosted across North America, remain on track. All qualified teams are expected to participate, including Iran, which will compete against the United States in what promises to be a highly anticipated match.
