Iran Will Play in the World Cup, Per FIFA President
Last week, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that, despite Iran not attending the congress in Vancouver, they will play in the World Cup this summer.
"Let me start at the outset confirming, straightaway for those who maybe want to say something else or want to write something else, that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course Iran will play in the United States of America."
According to The Guardian, a three-man delegation representing the Iranian Football Federation flew to Toronto last week, but after one was denied entry to the country, the other two didn’t attend in an “apparent act of protest.”
The Iranian media reported that IFF President Mehdi Taj was turned away despite having permission to travel. FIFA called it a “regrettable situation,” but said that Iran was invited, and it’s up to the country of Canada to determine who can come in.
Iran’s Participation Amid Political Tensions
Of course, Iran’s participation has gotten more coverage because of the ongoing war between Iran and the United States and Israel.
“There are enough problems around the world. There are enough people who try to divide all over the world. If nobody tries to unite, what will happen to our world? We have to do it, and we have this opportunity,” Infantino added.
Right now, Iran is slated to start their World Cup run in Los Angeles on June 15 against New Zealand. They’re also set to play Belgium (also in Los Angeles) on June 21.
They’ll finish Group G play against Egypt in Seattle.
There is a reality where Iran and the United States face off: if both squads finish second in their groups, they’ll play in Dallas with 32 teams remaining. It’ll be their first matchup since the group stage at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Additionally, in April, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that FIFA rejected Iran’s requests to have their games moved to Mexico.
Entry Concerns and Iran World Cup Odds
In playing in the World Cup, though, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that players would be welcome, but members of the federation may have trouble getting into the country.
“The problem with Iran would be some of the other people they would want to bring with them, some of whom have ties to the IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps],” Rubio said.
IFF President Taj is a former commander in the IRGC, and Canada listed them as a terrorist entity in 2024, which was part of his issue getting into the country.
The World Cup officially begins on June 11, and roster reveals, such as those for the United States, will be revealed later this month.
We’ll see if Iran shows up and is ready to play. Right now, at FanDuel Sportsbook, Iran is +30000 to win the World Cup. They’re behind Algeria (+22500) and ahead of DR Congo (+40000).
