FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that Iran will play its matches of the 2026 World Cup in the United States of America at specified locations.
Infantino’s statement sought to quell speculation that Iran wants to move its matches to Mexico instead of the United States.
The Iranian Football Federation recently confirmed that it is in talks to move the matches due to security concerns, while Mexico’s president has indicated that his country is ready to host Iran’s opening games.
However, Infantino took a firm stance and said all matches will be based on a draw.
UPDATE: FIFA President Gianni Infantino told AFP that despite the US-Israel war over Iran, Iran “will participate in the World Cup”. pic.twitter.com/JQGjYCPtkm
– Al Jazeera News (@AJENews) 31 March 2026
It is worth mentioning that USA, Mexico and Canada will jointly host this tournament which will start from June 11.
Iran will play its first match against New Zealand in Los Angeles.
A few days ago, US President Donald Trump advised the Iranian team not to participate in the World Cup, and because of that, they received security threats, and Iran also reacted strongly.
FIFA also emphasized that all teams will participate in the event and football will be used for peace and unity.
