Iran national football team has confirmed it will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup but says its involvement depends on several conditions being met by the joint host nations, the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The Iranian football federation stated on Saturday that while the team is committed to competing, it expects guarantees regarding treatment, security, and respect for its national symbols during the tournament.
The announcement comes amid heightened political tensions following ongoing conflict in the Middle East and diplomatic friction involving Iran and Western nations.
According to the federation, the conditions include assurances that visas will be issued without restrictions, respect for the national team staff, and full recognition of Iran’s flag and anthem throughout the competition.
Iran also requested strong security arrangements at airports, hotels, and stadium routes during the tournament, which is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
The federation president Mehdi Taj said Iran has outlined 10 specific conditions for participation, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of players and officials.
Concerns intensified after Canada reportedly denied entry to Iran’s football federation chief ahead of the FIFA Congress due to alleged ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries.
Despite these tensions, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reiterated that Iran will compete as scheduled and that the team will play its matches in the United States.
The United States has also stated that Iranian players and coaching staff would be welcome, though officials warned that some members of delegations with military affiliations could face visa restrictions.
Iran is expected to be based in Tucson, Arizona, for the tournament and has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
The team will open its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.
Iranian officials insist that political pressure will not prevent their participation, stating that qualification for the tournament was earned on sporting merit.
Leave a comment