Clear words about participation in the World Cup
Infantino makes a surprise appearance at the Iran game
March 31, 2026 – 5:36 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
The FIFA President unexpectedly visits Iran’s test match – and makes clear comments about the country’s much-discussed participation in the World Cup.
Fifa President Gianni Infantino appeared unannounced on Tuesday at a friendly between Iran and Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkey. During the half-time break, he confirmed: Iran will take part in the World Cup – despite considerable political uncertainty.
After the first 45 minutes, Infantino took the floor. “Iran will be at the World Cup. That’s why we’re here,” he said, according to SID. “We are happy because it is a very, very strong team, I am very happy. I have seen the team, I have spoken to the players and the coach, so everything is fine.” He ruled out moving the Iranian games: the games would take place “where they belong according to the draw.”
The war in the Middle East had recently raised doubts about Iran’s participation in the World Cup. The tournament will take place from June 11th to July 19th in the USA, Mexico and Canada. Infantino had already emphasized on Mexican television on Monday that there was “no plan B, C or D – there is plan A.” The political situation is “very complicated,” he admitted.
US President Donald Trump recently sent contradictory signals. On his platform Truth Social, he wrote that the Iranians were welcome – but “does not think it is appropriate for them to be there, with regard to their own lives and safety.” Last week, Iran banned its national teams and sports clubs from traveling to countries considered “hostile.”
In the preliminary round, Iran will face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, then Egypt in Seattle. The team’s World Cup quarters are booked in Tucson, Arizona.
