FIFA has invited the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran to its headquarters in Zurich for discussions regarding the country’s participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
According to reports, the meeting is scheduled to take place before May 20 as part of preparations for the global tournament, which will be co hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Iran’s involvement in the competition had come under uncertainty following escalating tensions in the Middle East earlier this year. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate as planned and will play its matches in the United States.
The issue gained further attention after Iran’s delegation failed to attend the recent FIFA Congress in Vancouver. Reports indicated that Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian football federation, and his team were denied entry into Canada due to immigration concerns tied to alleged affiliations with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which Canada has designated as a terrorist group.
Following the incident, Taj expressed interest in meeting with FIFA to address multiple concerns, including logistical and political challenges surrounding the tournament.
Despite the tensions, Iran is expected to proceed with its World Cup preparations. The team will reportedly be based in Tucson, Arizona, and is scheduled to compete in Group G alongside New Zealand national football team, Belgium national football team, and Egypt national football team.
Iran will kick off its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, as FIFA continues to navigate the complexities surrounding geopolitics and international sport.
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