FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed on Thursday that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States. Infantino stated, "Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and of course Iran will play in the United States of America." He emphasized the importance of unity, saying, "The reason for that is very simple, dear friends, is because we have to unite. We have to bring people together. It is my responsibility."

Congress Attendance Issues

This announcement comes after Iran's delegation was denied entry into Canada for the FIFA Congress. Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand described the denial as "unintentional." Although two Iranian delegates were eventually allowed into the country, they chose not to attend due to another member being turned away by immigration officials. A source informed ESPN that FIFA had requested Iran to maintain a presence at the Congress, but during the roll call, Iran was marked as "absent."

Support from U.S. Leadership

Despite the absence of the Iranian delegation, Infantino reaffirmed Iran's participation, stating, "there are no suspended member associations or any grounds for expulsion." U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed his support for Iran's involvement in the World Cup, indicating that if Infantino approved, he was in agreement. Trump had previously welcomed Iran's participation but cautioned the team regarding their safety amid ongoing conflicts.

Iran is set to begin its World Cup journey in Group G on June 15 against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, followed by matches against Egypt in Seattle and Belgium back in Inglewood.