Iran To Play World Cup Matches In US Despite Conflict – Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that the Iran national football team will play their scheduled matches in the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions

Iran had earlier explored the possibility of moving their fixtures to Mexico due to concerns surrounding the conflict involving the United States and Israel. Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, had indicated her country’s willingness to host the matches if required.

However, Infantino dismissed any potential changes following a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich.“The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw,” he stated.

The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will begin on 11 June. Iran are scheduled to face New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on 15 June, before taking on Belgium national football team and Egypt national football team in subsequent fixtures.

Concerns over Iran’s participation emerged following the outbreak of conflict on 28 February.

However, Infantino moved quickly to reassure stakeholders during a recent friendly against Costa Rica national football team in Türkiye.

“Iran will be at the World Cup — that’s why we’re here,” he said. “They are a very strong team, and everything is in order.”

Infantino also addressed remarks by Donald Trump, who had suggested the team should avoid travelling for safety reasons. Iranian authorities responded firmly, insisting their participation cannot be questioned

Reiterating FIFA’s stance, Infantino stressed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring the tournament proceeds as planned with all qualified teams.

“FIFA cannot resolve geopolitical conflicts, but we can use football to unite people and promote peace,” he said.Iran have continued their preparations with a series of international friendlies, including a recent fixture against Nigeria in Belek, Türkiye.In a moving gesture, Iranian players wore black armbands and carried school bags during the national anthem to honour victims of a deadly air strike on a primary school in Minab, which reportedly claimed at least 170 lives, including children and teachers.