Iran to play World Cup matches in US despite tensions, says FIFA

FIFA has confirmed that Iran will take part in the 2026 World Cup and will play matches in the United States, even as political tensions and logistical challenges continue to surround the tournament.

FIFA stands firm on participation

FIFA president Gianni Infantino made it clear that Iran's participation will go ahead as planned. "Let me start at the outset. Of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course Iran will play in the United States of America," Infantino said, per Hindustan Times.

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"And the reason for that is very simple, we have to unite. It is my responsibility, our responsibility."

Iran had earlier requested alternative venues for its matches on US soil, but FIFA has rejected that request, maintaining that the schedule will remain unchanged.

US response to Iran's participation

US President Donald Trump indicated that he had no objection to Iran playing in the tournament. "Well if Gianni said it I'm okay. Did Gianni say it?... You know what? Let them play. Well, Gianni's fantastic, he's a friend of mine. He talked about it," Trump told reporters, per HT.

"I said you do whatever you want. You can have them. You don't have to have them. They probably have a good team. Do they have a good team?"

Delegation absence highlights tensions

The issue gained further attention as Iran's delegation did not attend FIFA's Congress in Toronto. Iranian officials, including football federation president Mehdi Taj, were turned back at the airport despite holding valid visas. Tehran described the incident as "unacceptable behaviour" by Canadian authorities.

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A source indicated that while some members could have attended, the group chose not to participate after one delegate was denied entry.

Canada cites security concerns

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the matter, pointing to security protocols linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). "I can provide the following assurances and facts. One is that, as you know, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and all those members have been listed as a terrorist organisation for several years," he said.

"The members are prohibited from coming. We have a series of screenings, and we take action. And no members have entered the country. Action has been taken appropriately."

Tournament faces broader challenges

The expanded 48-team World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will require extensive cross-border movement. This raises concerns about visa rules and diplomatic frictions affecting teams and officials.

Outside the venue, a small group of protesters gathered, chanting slogans including "IRGC is terrorists" and "Hey FIFA, oi FIFA, no deal with terrorists", reflecting the broader political tensions surrounding the event.