FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will play its FIFA World Cup matches in the United States as originally scheduled, despite rising geopolitical tensions and security concerns.
Speaking during a friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica in Türkiye, Infantino stated, “The matches will be played where they are supposed to be, according to the draw.”
He added, “Iran will be at the World Cup… we’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team.”
Tensions rise amid regional conflict
The decision comes amid ongoing tensions linked to the recent conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Concerns over player safety had prompted discussions about relocating Iran’s matches.
Earlier, Iran’s football federation revealed it was “negotiating” with FIFA to move its matches away from the US to Mexico due to security fears.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also indicated that Mexico would be willing to host Iran’s group-stage matches if necessary.
Trump’s remarks add controversy
The situation became more complex after US President Donald Trump made controversial remarks suggesting that Iran’s team should not travel to the tournament “for their own life and safety.”
Iran strongly rejected the suggestion, responding that “no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup.”
Earlier, Infantino had indicated that Trump had assured FIFA that Iran would still be allowed to participate in the tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Match schedule and tournament details
The FIFA World Cup is set to begin on June 11, with Iran scheduled to play its first Group G match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.
Iran will also face Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle during the group stage.
The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, marking one of the largest World Cups in history.
Emotional backdrop amid conflict
The Iranian team recently paid tribute to victims of the ongoing conflict during a friendly match in Türkiye.
Players wore black armbands and posed with school bags to honor victims of an air strike on a primary school in the southern city of Minab, which reportedly killed at least 170 people, including students and teachers.
According to reports, preliminary findings suggested that a US missile strike hit the school due to a targeting error.
Broader implications for global sports
The situation highlights how global politics continues to intersect with international sports events. The World Cup, often seen as a unifying platform, now faces challenges linked to geopolitical conflicts and security concerns.
Despite these tensions, FIFA has maintained its position that all qualified teams will participate as scheduled, reinforcing the principle that sports should remain inclusive and independent of political disputes.
