Gianni Infantino Confirms Iran's World Cup Participation Amidst Tensions During Unannounced Test Match Visit
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has unequivocally confirmed Iran's participation in the upcoming World Cup, even as political tensions persist. However, the situation remains complex.
Amid ongoing discussions surrounding the World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended a test match between Iran and Costa Rica (which Iran won 5-0) in Turkey. During his visit, he reiterated that Iran is expected to participate in the summer tournament.
The head of world football's governing body made an unannounced appearance at the match in Antalya on Tuesday.
"Iran will be at the World Cup. That's why we are here. We are excited because it is a very, very strong team, I am very happy," Infantino stated during halftime. He added, "I have seen the team, I have spoken with the players and the coach, so everything is in order." The FIFA chief further clarified, in response to reports about potential venue changes, that the matches "will take place where they are scheduled according to the draw."
Conflicting Signals from Trump
Recent conflicts in the Middle East had raised significant doubts about Iran's participation in the tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Infantino emphasized on Monday in Mexican television that there is "no Plan B, C, or D," only "Plan A." The FIFA chief, who maintains a close relationship with US President Donald Trump, conceded, however, that the political situation is "very complicated."
Trump had recently sent mixed signals regarding Iran's involvement. On his Truth Social platform, he stated that Iranians were welcome, while simultaneously deeming it "not appropriate for them to be there, concerning their own lives and safety." Furthermore, the previous week, Iran had imposed a temporary ban on its national teams and sports clubs from traveling to countries considered "hostile."
Iran is scheduled to play New Zealand and Belgium in the group stage in Los Angeles, followed by a match against Egypt in Seattle. The team's World Cup headquarters have been booked in Tucson, Arizona. FIFA has no plans to relocate Iran's World Cup matches to Mexico.
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