The uncertainty over Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is over. Former US President Trump has agreed to Iran playing in America. FIFA President Infantino has also confirmed that Iran will play its matches on American soil only.
Washington: The ongoing uncertainty regarding Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ended. Former US President Donald Trump has given his consent for Iran to play in America. This statement comes after the announcement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in which he confirmed that Iran will play its group stage matches only on American soil. Trump said this while referring to his friendship with Infantino.
On Thursday, Trump said, “If Gianni said it, I also agree.” Let them play. Gianni is my friend, he had talked about this.” Earlier, Iran had demanded that its matches to be held in America be held at some other venue. But now that Trump has also supported FIFA’s stance, this controversy has ended. Now Iran has to decide whether they want to play or not.
FIFA’s message of unity
Gianni Infantino believes that football should unite the world despite political differences. Speaking at the FIFA Congress, he confirmed Iran’s participation and said, ‘Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and they will play in the United States. It is our responsibility to unite the world.
Visa dispute and political tension
Recently, the problems faced by the Iranian football delegation at Toronto Airport in Canada were also in the headlines. Despite having the correct visas, several people, including Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj, were forced to turn back due to alleged ill-treatment by Canadian immigration officials. Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with the US and Israel, FIFA is handling Iran’s World Cup participation very carefully. Iran qualified for the World Cup in March last year with a match against Uzbekistan.
Iran’s match schedule…
16 June: Iran vs New Zealand
June 22: Iran vs. Belgium
June 27: Iran vs Egypt