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FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirms Iran will play at the 2026 World Cup in North America despite Middle East tensions, stressing sport should build bridges beyond politics
US President Donald Trump joined by FIFA president Gianni Infantino (R) holds the World Cup Trophy (AFP)
Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking at a CNBC-organised economic forum, Infantino made it clear that the qualified nation’s place in the FIFA World Cup is not in doubt.
“Iran is coming for sure. We hope that by then the situation will be a peaceful situation, that would definitely help,” Infantino said, expressing optimism that conditions would improve before the competition begins.
He stressed that football should remain inclusive, adding, “But Iran has to come, they represent their people, they have qualified, the players want to play.”
Where Will Iran Play?
Iran have already secured their spot in the tournament and are scheduled to play their group-stage matches in the United States, with fixtures planned in Los Angeles and Seattle, while their base will be in Tucson, Arizona. The tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Infantino also revealed that he had recently met the Iranian squad during a friendly in Antalya, Turkey, and came away impressed by their quality and determination.
“The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes,” Infantino said. “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.”
Football In Times Of War
Highlighting the broader role of sport, Infantino added, “I went to see them. They are actually quite a good team as well. And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics now.”
He acknowledged, however, that complete separation is difficult in reality. “OK we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” Infantino 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.”
(With inputs from Agencies)
United States of America (USA)
April 16, 2026, 11:49 IST
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