Infantino stressed that Iran has earned its place through qualification and represents millions of fans, adding that football must remain a unifying force beyond politics.
BY PC Bureau
April 16, 2026: FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino has firmly stated that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup, brushing aside concerns over geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict involving the United States.
Speaking at CNBC’s Invest in America Forum, Infantino made it clear there is no uncertainty about Iran’s participation. “The Iranian team is coming, for sure,” he said, stressing that the country has earned its place on merit. “Iran has to come. They represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play.”
While expressing hope that the broader situation stabilises before the tournament kicks off, Infantino emphasised that football must remain a unifying platform. He underlined that there is no contingency plan to exclude qualified teams, reiterating that “Plan A is the only plan.”
Coupe du monde 2026 : Gianni Infantino assure que l’équipe d’Iran sera présente pic.twitter.com/8qbB4QG8vG
— BFM Première (@BFMPremiere) April 16, 2026
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Iran secured qualification through the Asian qualifiers, earning an early spot in the expanded 48-team tournament. Drawn in Group G, the team is set to play all its group-stage matches in the United States, including fixtures in Inglewood, California, and Seattle.
Infantino highlighted Iran’s significance as a major footballing nation with a large and passionate fan base, both domestically and across the global diaspora. He noted that their participation is important for the tournament’s inclusivity and competitive integrity, particularly in a World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The clarification comes amid speculation that rising regional tensions could affect logistics or participation. However, FIFA has maintained that the tournament structure remains unchanged and that all qualified teams will compete as scheduled.
The statement reinforces FIFA’s stance on keeping politics separate from sport, even as it navigates complex global realities. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Iran’s confirmed presence adds another layer of attention to what is expected to be one of the most closely watched tournaments in history.
