Iran's Participation in 2026 World Cup Confirmed by FIFA President
FIFA President Confirms Iran's Participation
File image of FIFA president Gianni Infantino(Photo: IANS)
Mumbai, May 1: Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, has officially announced that Iran will compete in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite the ongoing tensions involving Israel and the USA.
During his opening speech at the 76th FIFA Congress held in Vancouver, Canada, Infantino confirmed Iran's participation. A video shared on social media featured highlights from his address, where he made this significant announcement.
Infantino emphasized the role of football in fostering connections in a fragmented world, as all 48 participating nations prepare to showcase their talents at the World Cup, sending a strong message of unity.
"Let me clarify for anyone who might have doubts or wish to report otherwise: Iran will indeed be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026, and they will play in the USA. This is essential because we must come together," Infantino stated on Thursday.
He further underscored football's potential to promote peace and solidarity, asserting that the sport has the power to unite people globally.
"We must unite individuals. It is our duty. Football brings the world together, FIFA brings the world together, and we all share this responsibility. We must remain positive and joyful. There are enough challenges globally, and many who seek to divide us. If we do not strive for unity, what will become of our world? We have this chance, at the FIFA Congress, during the FIFA Series, and certainly at the FIFA World Cup. Together, we are unstoppable," he added.
Previously, Iran had declared it would not send its men's team to the USA for the World Cup in June-July 2026 as a form of protest following attacks from Israel, which is supported by the United States.
Concerns regarding Iran's participation persisted as the country did not send a delegation to the FIFA Congress in Canada.
According to reports, officials from the Iranian football federation, including president Mehdi Taj, were expected to attend the Congress but were notably absent, being the only member association out of 211 not represented.
Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that their delegation was turned away at the border, citing issues with Canadian immigration authorities. Canada's foreign affairs minister, Anita Anand, indicated that there was a "revocation" of their entry permissions.