FIFA CONFIRMS IRAN WILL PARTICIPATE IN WORLD CUP, HOW DID US PRESIDENT TRUMP REACT?
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has affirmed that the Iranian national team will still participate in the 2026 World Cup this summer, despite previous concerns related to the ongoing conflict.
What decision will the US President make regarding the Iranian team? Will he support the team or will he forgo it to ensure the World Cup proceeds smoothly?
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Iran’s Participation Was Questioned
Iran secured its place at the world’s biggest football tournament for the fourth consecutive time after topping its group in the third round of Asian qualifiers. However, the West Asian team’s participation was questioned amid the conflict that erupted in February, when the US and Israel launched airstrikes against the country.
US envoy Paolo Zampolli revealed to the Financial Times that he had suggested to US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Infantino the possibility of replacing Iran with Italy, a four-time world champion who missed out on the World Cup for the third consecutive time after a penalty shootout defeat against Bosnia & Herzegovina in the European play-off round.
Conversely, Iranian officials have recently repeatedly affirmed that their national team will still participate in 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada starting June 12, after previously stating that conditions did not allow it. An Iranian government spokesperson said they are preparing for “a proud and successful World Cup”.
FIFA Speaks Out
These statements have now been officially confirmed by FIFA. Speaking at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada, on April 30th, Infantino emphasized: “I want to state clearly from the outset, to avoid any speculation, that Iran will definitely participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Of course, Iran will play in the United States. The reason is simple: we need unity, we need to bring people closer together.”
In March, US President Trump declared Iran “welcome to the World Cup”. But also expressed concern that their participation might be “inappropriate for safety reasons.” Following Infantino’s statement on April 30th, Trump said: “If Gianni said so, then I agree. Let them play.”
Previously, Iran had proposed playing matches in Mexico. But FIFA has consistently maintained that they will participate in the tournament as originally planned.
According to the schedule, Iran will begin their World Cup. Iran campaign with matches against New Zealand and Belgium on June 16 and 22. Respectively, before facing Egypt on June 27.
