Infantino made it clear that Iran’s “matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw”.
By Kehinde Okeowo
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the Islamic Republic of Iran will take part in the 2026 World Cup.
He made the disclosure recently while speaking at half-time during Iran’s friendly against Costa Rica in Turkey.
There has been scepticism regarding the participation of the oil-rich Persian country in this year’s tournament due to the hostility between the nation and the United States, one of the hosts of the sporting event.
Infantino, however, insisted they will play their group matches in the United States as scheduled, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
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While reassuring the football community and sports fans of their involvement, he said, “Iran will be at the World Cup.”
The FIFA boss added: “That’s why we’re here. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team; I’m very happy. I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine.”
Infantino made it clear that Iran’s “matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw”.
The World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on 11 June.
