Gianni Infantino Insists Iran Will Play World Cup Fixtures in U.S.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has firmly stated that Iran will play their 2026 World Cup matches in the United States, Reuters reports.
His declaration came as the football governing body opened its latest Congress on Thursday without the Iranian delegation, a striking absence that highlighted the severe political tensions surrounding the upcoming tournament.
Infantino emphasised unity as the primary reason for his stance. He confirmed that Iran would definitely participate in the tournament and play on American soil, calling it a shared responsibility to bring people together.
U.S. President Donald Trump gave his blessing to the arrangement. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, he expressed his approval based on his positive relationship with the FIFA chief.
Trump stated he was «okay» with letting the Iranian squad compete and casually questioned the strength of their team.
Venue disputes and border denials
Despite qualifying for the tournament running from June 11 to July 19, Iran’s involvement has been heavily complicated. Tehran previously asked for alternative match venues outside the U.S. but FIFA rejected the proposal and insisted the original schedule would remain unchanged.
The political hurdles facing the tournament were laid bare on Tuesday when Iranian football officials, including federation president Mehdi Taj, were turned away at Toronto airport.
Although travelling with valid visas, the delegation chose to return home after what Tehran branded «unacceptable behaviour» from Canadian border authorities. A source told Reuters that two members could have attended the Congress but opted out in solidarity after one person was denied entry.
Taj is a former member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney defended the border decision by reminding the public that Canada designates the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. He assured that thorough screenings were in place and that individuals linked to the group remain strictly prohibited from entering the country.
Wider political tensions and logistics
The diplomatic friction comes at a highly sensitive time following the outbreak of war between Iran and an alliance of the U.S. and Israel in February. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified last week that while Washington does not object to Iranian players taking part in the World Cup, any individuals with IRGC connections will be barred from accompanying the squad.
The absence of Iranian officials in Toronto deprived the Congress of crucial representation, especially as the expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, will require significant cross-border travel. This logistical reality raises fears that diplomatic disputes and visa issues could severely disrupt the planning for several nations as teams and support staff attempt to move between jurisdictions.
Meanwhile, protests took place outside the convention centre. Around 30 demonstrators wrapped in Iranian flags gathered to demand regime change and voice their support for opposition figure Reza Pahlavi. The crowd chanted anti-IRGC slogans and urged FIFA to refuse any dealings with terrorists.
From economics and politics to business, technology and culture, Kursiv Uzbekistan brings you key news and in-depth analysis from Uzbekistan and around the world. To stay up to date and get the latest stories in real time, follow our Telegram channel.
