FIFA President Gianni Infantino has once again confirmed that Iran will participate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, he stated, “I want to make it clear from the beginning that Iran will definitely take part in the World Cup, and of course, they will play their matches in the United States.” The expanded 48-team tournament will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada, and Mexico. Due to the multi-country hosting format, officials and support staff will need to travel frequently between nations, which may create visa complications or diplomatic challenges for some teams.

Iran secured qualification for the World Cup for the fourth consecutive time after finishing at the top of Group A in the Asian qualifiers. However, Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj has expressed concern that ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel could complicate arrangements for the tournament.

In the group stage, Iran has been placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Their matches are scheduled to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.

If both Iran and the United States finish second in their respective groups, they could face each other in a knockout match on July 3 in Dallas.

Although Iran requested an alternative venue instead of playing in the United States, FIFA rejected the proposal and confirmed that the original schedule will remain unchanged.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iranian players are welcome to participate, but individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will not be allowed entry.