Infantino: Iran to Play 2026 World Cup Matches in United States
T.E (Elbotola)
30 April 2026at22:22
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Iranian national team will participate in the 2026 World Cup despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and will play its matches in American stadiums.
Speaking at FIFA's annual conference held in Vancouver, Canada, Infantino stated: "Iran will participate in the World Cup and will play its matches in the United States of America."
He continued, explaining: "The reason is simple. We must unite, unite peoples. This is our responsibility. Football must unite us."
It is worth noting that the Iranian Football Federation delegation boycotted the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, protesting the denial of entry to one of its members by Canadian immigration officials.
Q&A
What did FIFA President Infantino confirm regarding Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup?
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Iranian national team will play its 2026 World Cup matches in the United States. He stated this at FIFA's annual conference, emphasizing football's role in uniting peoples despite ongoing global conflicts.
Why did FIFA decide to have Iran play its 2026 World Cup matches in the United States?
FIFA President Infantino explained the decision to have Iran play in the United States is to unite peoples through football. He stressed that it is FIFA's responsibility to bring nations together, even amidst geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts.
What was the Iranian Football Federation's reaction to the FIFA Congress where this announcement was made?
The Iranian Football Federation delegation boycotted the FIFA Congress in Vancouver, protesting the denial of entry to one of its members. This action occurred despite FIFA President Infantino's announcement about Iran's participation in the upcoming World Cup.
