FIFA takes firm stance on Iran’s participation in 2026 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed the organization’s commitment to Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup finals, emphasizing that there is no alternative plan to exclude them despite the political complexities surrounding the tournament.

ESPN quoted Infantino as saying during an interview with the Mexican channel N+ Univision:

We want Iran to play… they will play in the World Cup. There is no Plan B, C, or D; there is only one Plan A.

Infantino explained that FIFA remains committed to holding the tournament as scheduled, with the participation of all qualified teams, stressing that the organization seeks to “build bridges” through football, far removed from political tensions.

These statements come amid escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly with the United States, along with Canada and Mexico, hosting the next World Cup. This has raised questions about Iran’s potential participation or the possibility of moving its matches to another country, given the escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

According to the agency, the Iranian Football Federation had proposed playing its matches outside the United States, but FIFA has not yet shown any inclination to amend its organizational plans.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place between June 11 and July 19, marking the first edition to feature 48 teams and be held across three countries.

Featured image via the Canary