The Iran national football team will compete in the World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. However, their participation remains uncertain less than two months before the opening of the tournament in the United States due to the conflict in the Middle East, particularly for security reasons.
“We hope that at the time (the start of the competition on June 11), the situation will be peaceful, which would really help,” Infantino explained during an economic conference in Washington.
Despite the uncertainty, Infantino emphasized the importance of Iran’s presence, stating, “But Iran must come, they represent their people, they have qualified, the players want to play.”
Initially considering a boycott, Iran requested to move its matches from the US to Mexico, a request FIFA denied. The Iranian sports minister stated, “Since this corrupt government assassinated our leader, we have no intention of participating in the World Cup.”
After weeks of airstrikes and retaliations, a fragile ceasefire was implemented on April 8, following tensions in the region. Recognizing the complex political situation, Infantino emphasized that sports should remain separate from politics.
Infantino also expressed optimism about the success of the World Cup, which will be the largest ever held with 48 teams from 3 countries, highlighting the importance of security and the quality of football matches for a successful tournament.
Source: AFP
[Context: FIFA President confirms Iran’s participation in World Cup despite uncertainties due to Middle East conflict.] [Fact Check: FIFA denied Iran’s request to move matches from US to Mexico citing political tensions.]
