Will Iran Play in the US-Hosted World Cup? FIFA President Clarifies Position Amid Tensions

FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that Iran will participate in the upcoming World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, saying the team’s place in the tournament is not in doubt despite escalating geopolitical tensions.

“The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes,” Infantino said during CNBC’s Invest in America Forum.

“We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play.”

Sports should remain separate from politics

Infantino stressed that football should remain independent from global political conflicts, even as the war between the United States and Iran raises security and diplomatic concerns around the tournament.

“I went to see them. They are actually quite a good team as well,” he said, referring to a recent visit with the Iranian national squad in Antalya, Turkey. “And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics now,” he said.

Also Read: FIFA on Alert as U.S.–Iran Escalation Raises 2026 World Cup Concerns

While advocating for separation between sport and politics, Infantino acknowledged that complete separation is not always realistic.

“OK, we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” he said. “But you know if there is nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well, we are doing that job.”

World Cup fixtures in the United States

The United States will co-host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with Iran scheduled to play two group-stage matches in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle.

Also Read:Former FIFA Boss Tells Fans to “Stay Away” From U.S. World Cup Matches

Iran’s participation had previously been uncertain following escalating tensions and reported military strikes involving the United States and Israel.

Conflicting statements from Iranian officials and external political pressure further fueled speculation about whether the team would travel.

US President Donald Trump has also raised safety concerns, discouraging Iran’s participation in the tournament.

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Iran National Team during a friendly match against Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkiye, on March 31, 2026. PHOTO/Supersport.