Iran Confirmed for World Cup 2026, Will Play in US

FIFA President Gianni Infantino definitively confirmed Iran will participate in World Cup 2026 and play their matches in the United States, ending weeks of uncertainty following Middle East conflict tensions. "Of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course, Iran will play (in) the United States of America," Infantino declared at FIFA's 76th Congress in Vancouver.

US President Donald Trump immediately backed the decision, telling reporters "if Gianni said it, I'm OK. I think let 'em play." Iran had previously requested to play their group games in Mexico instead of the US, but Infantino rejected that proposal. The Iranian delegation missed the Congress after clashing with Canadian immigration officials who designated IRGC-linked individuals as "inadmissible." Iran faces New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G, opening against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.

Infantino also defended World Cup ticket pricing despite criticism, insisting all $11-13 billion in revenues will "go back to the entire world and finance football in all of your countries." He received a major boost for re-election as head of FIFA with pledges of support from African and Asian confederations, controlling 101 of 211 votes.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/04/30/infantino-confirms-iran-will-play-world-cup-games-in-us/