FIFA confirms Iran’s participation in 2026 tournament despite tensions

Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Iranian national team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that its matches will be held in the United States according to the official tournament schedule. Speaking to reporters following Iran’s 5–0 friendly victory over Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkey, Infantino said: “Iran will be at the World Cup. We are very happy because they are a very strong team.” He added that matches would take place in their designated venues based on the tournament draw, noting that he had met with the players and coaching staff and that “everything is fine.” In parallel, Mehdi Mohammad Nabi, first vice president of the Iranian Football Federation, affirmed that Iran would comply with FIFA regulations […]