FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will play its 2026 World Cup matches in the United States as originally scheduled.
Earlier this month, the Iranian Football Federation said it was in discussions with FIFA to potentially move its games from the US to Mexico, citing tensions arising from the US and Israel’s war with Iran. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also offered her country as a backup host for Iran’s first-round matches.
“The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw,” Infantino said on Tuesday, putting an end to speculation about Iran’s World Cup fixtures.
The 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on June 11. Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 27.
Concerns over Iran’s participation arose following the outbreak of war with the US and Israel on February 28.
Addressing those fears during halftime of Iran’s friendly against Costa Rica in Turkiye, Infantino reassured fans: “Iran will be at the World Cup … That’s why we’re here. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team. I’m very happy. I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine.”
Infantino’s unannounced presence at the friendly further emphasized FIFA’s commitment to ensuring Iran competes in the tournament.
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