FIFA president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will play their scheduled 2026 World Cup matches in the United States. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the governing body's leader dismissed suggestions that the fixtures might be moved to neutral venues in Canada or Mexico. He stated that the tournament's organisation remains unchanged and all qualified nations will compete in their designated host cities.
The decision follows concerns regarding diplomatic relations between the two countries. However, Infantino emphasised that football serves as a unifying force and reiterated that the security of all participating teams is a priority. According to Reuters, the United States, Canada, and Mexico are co-hosting the expanded 48-team tournament, which is the first of its kind.
Iran secured their place in the finals after topping their qualifying group earlier this year. Per The Guardian, the schedule remains fixed following a review by the FIFA organising committee. This announcement ensures that the Iranian national team will travel to American soil for the group stage matches as originally organised.
