FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed on Thursday that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and that the matches will be held in the United States as previously planned.
Infantino made the announcement at the 76th FIFA Congress at the Convention Center in Vancouver. Football representatives from around the world gathered here to discuss the organization of the tournament, changes to the rules and preparations for the upcoming event.
Addressing rumors that Iran would not participate in the 2026 World Cup due to recent instability in the region, Infantino said: “I confirm that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and that Iran will play in the United States.” Earlier,
Iranian officials had proposed that the group stage matches be held in Mexico. But FIFA rejected this proposal. US government officials recently expressed their support for the Iranian national team to participate in the upcoming World Cup.
Vancouver is preparing to host one of the stages of the World Cup, which will be held in 48 teams for the first time in history. The tournament will be held between June 11 and July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
