Vancouver – FIFA President Gianni Infantino reassured that Iran will participate in their scheduled World Cup matches in the United States as he commenced the global football organization’s summit in Vancouver.
The uncertainty surrounding Iran’s involvement in this year’s tournament, set to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, arose following conflicts in the Middle East triggered by US and Israel strikes in February.
During his address to delegates in Vancouver, Infantino reiterated that Iran will indeed take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and will compete in the United States of America, dismissing any speculations about relocating their matches to Mexico.
Recent reports suggested a proposal to have Italy replace Iran in the World Cup, but the US government distanced itself from this idea, affirming that Iran’s team is welcome.
The tension surrounding Iran’s participation persisted leading up to the FIFA Congress, where Iran was notably absent due to an incident with Canadian border officials earlier in the week.
Following an encounter with Canadian immigration officers in Toronto, officials from the Iranian football federation (FFIRI), including president Mehdi Taj, departed Canada abruptly, citing feeling insulted.
Canada’s immigration agency clarified its stance, stating that individuals associated with the IRGC, designated a terrorist organization in 2024, are deemed inadmissible to the country.
Despite the challenges, Iran is slated to be stationed in Tucson, Arizona during the World Cup, facing teams from New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G, with their first match against New Zealand scheduled in Los Angeles on June 15.