Iran's national soccer team will compete in the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup hosted in the United States.

The decision is significant because of the long-standing diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Iran, raising concerns over the safety and logistics of the visiting delegation.

Iranian officials confirmed the participation on Wednesday. Football Association chief Mehdi Taj is expected to meet with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the coming days to seek formal assurances regarding the conditions for the team [2]. Spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the team requires appropriate and safe conditions to participate in the tournament [1, 2].

FIFA has confirmed that Iran will play all its group-stage matches on U.S. soil [3]. The team is scheduled to play in two cities: Los Angeles and Seattle [3, 4].

Iran has been placed in Group G for the tournament [4]. They are scheduled to face Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand [4].

The Iranian FA is prioritizing the security of its players and staff amid the geopolitical climate. Officials said they will continue to coordinate with FIFA to ensure the team can compete without interference [2].

“Iran's national soccer team will compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted in the United States.”

The participation of the Iranian national team in a U.S.-hosted tournament tests the ability of international sports bodies to maintain a neutral environment despite severe bilateral tensions. By requesting formal safety assurances, Iran is leveraging FIFA's governing authority to ensure the U.S. government provides necessary protections and visas for the delegation.