Infantino: Iran to Participate in World Cup, Matches to be Played in the US

In a clear and unequivocal statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has affirmed that Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup remains on track, with their matches set to be played in the United States as originally planned. This declaration directly addresses recent concerns and requests from the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) to relocate their group stage games from American soil to Mexico, citing ongoing regional conflicts.

Infantino's firm stance underscores FIFA's commitment to the tournament's schedule and its broader mission of fostering global unity through sport. "We have to come together. That is my responsibility, our responsibility," he stated during the FIFA congress in Vancouver, Canada. This sentiment highlights the organization's belief in football's power to transcend political tensions and connect nations.

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Bien sûr que l’Iran participera à la Coupe du monde 2026. Et bien sûr que l’Iran jouera aux Etats-Unis d’Amérique.

The FFIRI's request to move matches, specifically those scheduled in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium, and in Seattle against Egypt, stemmed from security concerns related to the volatile situation in the Middle East. However, Infantino's response suggests that FIFA prioritizes the established tournament framework and the principle of equitable participation for all qualified nations, regardless of geopolitical complexities.

This decision, while perhaps disappointing for those seeking a change, reinforces the established protocols for World Cup hosting and participant arrangements. It signals that FIFA intends to proceed with the tournament as planned, ensuring a consistent experience for all teams and fans, and maintaining the integrity of the competition's structure. The focus remains on the sport itself, with FIFA aiming to keep the beautiful game as a unifying force on the global stage.

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Laissez-moi commencer par le commencement. Bien sûr que l’Iran participera à la Coupe du monde 2026. Et bien sûr que l’Iran jouera aux Etats-Unis d’Amérique. Et la raison en est très simple : nous devons nous rassembler. C’est ma responsabilité, notre responsabilité.