FIFA announced that the Iranian national football team will play its 2026 World Cup group-stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle [1], [2].
The confirmation resolves a period of uncertainty regarding whether the team would participate in the tournament given the geopolitical tensions between Iran and the U.S. The announcement serves as a formal assurance that the team will not face restrictions or insults during their stay.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino ended speculation regarding the team's status on May 6, 2026 [3]. This final call came 40 days before the tournament is scheduled to begin [4].
"The Iranian team is coming, for sure," Infantino said [5].
He said that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup in the United States as scheduled [6].
While FIFA has now shared the final match schedule, the process was preceded by demands for guarantees. Mehdi Taj, the chief of the Iran Football Association, had previously sought assurances from FIFA to ensure the safety, and dignity of the squad [7].
The decision to place matches in two specific U.S. cities, Los Angeles and Seattle [1], [2], finalizes the logistical planning for the team's group-stage appearance. The move aims to stabilize the tournament's roster and prevent a high-profile diplomatic withdrawal that could have complicated the event's organization.
“"The Iranian team is coming, for sure."”
The confirmation of Iran's participation highlights FIFA's effort to maintain the 'neutrality' of sports amidst severe diplomatic friction. By providing specific venues and public guarantees, FIFA is attempting to mitigate the risk of a political boycott or security incident that could disrupt the tournament's image as a global unifying event.
