Gianni Infantino confirms Iran will play World Cup matches in the US
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the upcoming World Cup and play their group-stage fixtures in the United States as originally scheduled.
The participation of the Middle Eastern nation had been in doubt due to the ongoing US-Israel war involving Iran.
Earlier this month, the Iranian football federation revealed it was in negotiations with world football’s governing body to relocate matches to Mexico.
“Iran will be at the World Cup. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team.”
Gianni Infantino
Geopolitical tensions threaten fixtures
Group stage opponents for the Asian side include New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on 15 and 21 June, followed by Egypt in Seattle five days later.
The tournament is being co-hosted across North America by the US, Canada and Mexico, with the opening fixtures commencing on 11 June.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had offered to accommodate the relocated games, but the Swiss football chief remains adamant the original draw will be respected.
“The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.”
Gianni Infantino
Political figures weigh in on safety
Infantino recently attended a comprehensive 5-0 friendly victory for the Iranian squad against Costa Rica in Turkey to personally assess the situation.
“I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine.”
Gianni Infantino
US President Donald Trump recently stated on social media that the visiting nation would be welcome, before controversially suggesting they should withdraw for their own safety.
Those remarks prompted a swift rebuke from Tehran, with officials arguing the host nation should forfeit their place in the tournament instead.
Further casting doubt on the logistical reality, Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth Ahmad Donyamali indicated his country was not currently in a position to participate.
