FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will play its matches in the United States as originally scheduled, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Speaking at FIFA’s 76th Congress in Vancouver, Infantino dismissed doubts surrounding Iran’s participation, insisting the team remains fully part of the tournament.

“Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” he said. “And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America.”

The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with Iran drawn into Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The team is expected to be based in Arizona and will open its campaign in Los Angeles on June 15.

Iran’s participation had earlier faced uncertainty due to rising tensions in the Middle East and diplomatic strains involving the United States. Iranian football officials were also absent from the FIFA Congress after reportedly encountering immigration issues during travel through Canada.

Canadian authorities have maintained restrictions on individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, further complicating attendance at the summit.

Despite earlier suggestions that Iran’s matches could be relocated away from the United States, FIFA leadership rejected the proposal, reaffirming the original hosting arrangement. A US government representative also backed the decision, saying, “If Gianni said it, I’m OK. I think let ’em play.”

The US government later clarified that Iranian players would be allowed to compete in the tournament.

The congress also addressed broader issues, including World Cup ticket pricing and FIFA governance. Infantino defended the pricing structure, noting that projected revenues of $11–13 billion would be reinvested into global football development.

He also received strong political backing, with football confederations in Africa and Asia signalling support for his possible re-election bid in 2027.

Despite off-field controversies, FIFA maintains that preparations for the 2026 World Cup remain on track, with all qualified teams expected to participate under the current structure.