Summary
Talks between the Iranian football federation and FIFA's President Gianni Infantino have made progress toward Iran participating in the World Cup 2026 in the United States. Despite concerns about security due to the ongoing war involving the US and Iran, Iran is preparing for the tournament, which begins in June. FIFA continues to support Iran's participation in the US, with no plans to move games from Los Angeles and Seattle to Mexico.
Key Facts
- Iranian football officials met with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss Iran's participation in the World Cup in the US.
- The talks made progress in football diplomacy amid tensions from the ongoing war.
- Iran's games at the World Cup are set to remain in the US, not moved to Mexico, as confirmed by Infantino.
- Iran is due to arrive in Tucson, Arizona, by June 10 for training before the tournament starts on June 11.
- Security and training facilities in Arizona are being prepared for Iran's team.
- The Iranian team played warm-up games in Antalya, Turkiye, beating Costa Rica 5-0 without spectators.
- There were protests by the Iran team against US-backed military actions during the national anthems of those games.
