New Delhi: Iran will play their World Cup matches in America as per schedule in June despite having security concerns due to the country’s ongoing armed conflict with the tournament co-hosts, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said.
Iran want their group matches to be relocated to Mexico on account of the ongoing conflict in West Asia also involving Israel.
Iran’s sports ministry has national and club sports teams from travelling to countries it considers hostile until further notice while the Iranian FA (FFIRI) said it is in discussions with FIFA over venue switch.
But Infantino didn’t entertain the idea of their matches getting shifted, while watching Iran’s 5-0 friendly win over Costa Rica.
“No, no, the matches will be where they should be according to the draw,” he said in Turkey’s city of Antalya, where Iran are holding a training camp.
“It looks like we’ll be in the right grounds. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team, as we saw today. I’m very happy. I saw the team, I spoke to the players and the coaches.”
Iran qualified for the tournament in March last year, and were drawn to play all of their Group G matches in America — two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle — against Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.
Earlier this month, USA President Donald Trump said Iran would be welcomed to play but it might not be appropriate for their “life and safety” but later clarified that any threat to the players wouldn’t be from his country.
Infantiono spoke directly to the Iranian players in Antalya and offered support while steering clear of the wider issues surrounding the war.
“From now until the World Cup, I will do whatever I can to support the Iran national team,” Infantino said, as per the FFIRI.
“If you want to organise a training camp or if there is any matter related to activities outside the country, whatever it is, I will help.
“Whenever you want, please stay in contact. I am at your service and will help with anything you need.”