The Iranian national football team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, after receiving a nod of approval from U.S. President Donald Trump. The decision comes after FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran’s participation at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, a move that prompted a surprisingly candid response from the U.S. President.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated, “If Gianni said it, I’m OK. Did Gianni say it? Gianni Infantino – that is a piece of function.” He continued, “Well, if they win we’ll have to worry about that, that’s not…I’m going to have to worry about that one.” Trump added, “Let them play well. Gianni’s fantastic, he’s a friend of mine. He talked about it, I said, ‘You do whatever you want. You can have them, you don’t have to have them.’ Probably have a good team, I don’t know. Do they have a good team?”
This apparent willingness to allow Iran to compete marks a shift from earlier statements made by Trump in March, when he expressed reservations about the team’s presence in the U.S. Amid heightened tensions between the two countries. At that time, Trump indicated Iran was “welcome” at the World Cup but questioned whether it was “appropriate” for their safety, according to reports. The context for those earlier concerns stemmed from a period of escalating conflict following February airstrikes that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Infantino addressed the matter directly at the FIFA Congress, stating unequivocally, “Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026.” He further emphasized, “And of course, Iran will play [in] the United States of America.” Infantino’s comments were intended to dispel any lingering doubts about Iran’s inclusion in the tournament, which is scheduled to begin in June and July of 2026.
The confirmation follows a period of uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation. Iranian officials had previously explored the possibility of having their group stage matches relocated to Mexico, but that proposal was rejected by Infantino. The Iranian national team is currently preparing for the tournament, with plans to arrive in the U.S. Approximately ten days before their opening match against New Zealand, scheduled for June 15th near Los Angeles. They are currently holding a training camp in Turkey, where they will play three preparatory matches.
Iran is drawn into Group G, alongside Belgium and Egypt. The team’s participation is particularly noteworthy given the complex geopolitical landscape and the ongoing, though currently paused, negotiations regarding a lasting resolution to the conflict between the U.S. And Iran. The decision to allow Iran to compete underscores FIFA’s commitment to keeping politics separate from sport, a principle that has been tested in recent years by various international conflicts.
Notably, representatives from the Iranian Football Federation were absent from the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. Reports indicate that the federation’s president, Mehdi Taj, was denied entry into Canada upon arrival. This absence also extended to the World Cup draw in December 2025, held in Washington, D.C., where the Iranian delegation was not present.
Infantino reiterated that excluding Iran from the tournament was not an option, stating, “Notice enough problems, enough people who divide. Football, has strength and magic. Together we are unbeatable.” This sentiment reflects FIFA’s broader aim of using football as a unifying force, even amidst global tensions.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams, an expansion from the previous 32-team format. This change is expected to increase the overall competitiveness and global representation within the competition. The tournament will be hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, presenting logistical challenges and opportunities for all participating nations.
For Iran, qualifying for and competing in the World Cup represents a significant moment for the nation’s football program and its supporters. Despite the political complexities, the team’s presence in the U.S. Will undoubtedly be a focal point of attention throughout the tournament. The team will be looking to build on their previous World Cup appearances and make a strong showing on the global stage.
The situation highlights the delicate balance FIFA must maintain between its stated commitment to political neutrality and the realities of international relations. Infantino’s close relationship with Trump has drawn scrutiny, particularly as the U.S. President has demonstrated a willingness to publicly weigh in on matters traditionally left to the football governing body. The coming months will be crucial as preparations for the World Cup continue, and all eyes will be on how the tournament unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Iranian national team is their arrival in the United States in early June 2026, ahead of their opening match against New Zealand. Fans can stay updated on the team’s preparations and match schedule through FIFA’s official website and other reputable sports news sources.
What are your thoughts on Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup? Share your opinions in the comments below!
