Iran confirmed to play at World Cup according to FIFA chief Infantino | World Cup 2026 News
FIFA President Confirms Iran’s Participation in 2026 World Cup Amid Tensions
Published April 30, 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino reaffirmed that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This statement comes as the tournament’s Congress commenced without a delegation from Iran, underscoring ongoing tensions linked to the U.S.-Israeli conflict affecting the country.
Iran’s absence from the Congress is significant, particularly as discussions continue regarding the complex logistics of an expanded 48-team World Cup that will see teams moving across international borders multiple times during the event. Concerns about potential visa restrictions and diplomatic challenges loom large for various nations, including Iran.
Despite qualifying for the tournament, Iran’s participation has been complicated by the ongoing conflict, leading Tehran to request alternative venues for matches within the U.S. FIFA has declined this request, maintaining that the original schedule will remain intact.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated last week that while there are no official barriers to Iranian players participating in the tournament, individuals with connections to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would not be allowed entry.
Infantino emphasized the importance of unity in his remarks at the Congress, stating, “Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course Iran will play in the United States of America. The reason for that is very simple: we have to unite. It is my responsibility, our responsibility.”
Officials from Iran’s football federation, including President Mehdi Taj, were scheduled to attend the Congress but were reportedly turned away at Toronto’s airport due to what Tehran described as “unacceptable behavior” by Canadian immigration officials, despite their valid visas. A source familiar with the situation revealed that, after one member of the delegation was denied entry, the remaining officials opted not to attend.
Canadian authorities clarified that entry decisions are made on a case-by-case basis and that individuals associated with the IRGC, classified as a terrorist organization by Canada, are inadmissible.
“We have a series of screenings, and we take action. No members have entered the country. Action has been taken appropriately,” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated.
Outside the Congress venue, a group of about 30 protesters, adorned in Iranian flags, gathered to advocate for regime change in Iran. They expressed their opposition to the IRGC, chanting slogans such as, “IRGC is terrorists” and “No deal with terrorists.”
