FIFA President Infantino Confirms Iran’s 2026 World Cup Spot Despite US Entry Restrictions
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, with group matches scheduled to take place in the United States despite tighter entry restrictions for Iranian nationals and heightened security concerns surrounding the tournament.
Infantino made the remarks in Washington during a CNBC forum, stating that Iran’s participation is settled and already factored into operational planning across host cities. Iran secured qualification in March 2025 and is scheduled to play two group-stage matches in Inglewood, California, and a third in Seattle under current match allocations.
Mexican authorities also disclosed that FIFA rejected a proposal to relocate Iran’s matches to Mexico, opting instead to retain the original venue distribution across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA has finalized plans for an expanded tournament featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, with the United States hosting 78 fixtures. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, in the New York–New Jersey area, anchoring a six-week schedule that will involve extensive coordination across aviation, hospitality, transport, and urban services.
Financial projections shared during the Washington appearance estimate tournament revenue at $11 billion, while World Trade Organisation figures place total economic output at $80.1 billion globally, including $30.5 billion generated within the United States.
FIFA also positioned the tournament as a key funding source for football development worldwide, noting that revenues will support projects across its 211 member associations through grant distributions tied to commercial performance.
Addressing concerns over Iran’s participation, Infantino reiterated that the team’s inclusion is guaranteed, emphasizing that arrangements are in place to ensure match integrity and player availability despite geopolitical and logistical challenges.
However, US travel restrictions affecting countries including Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast have created a two-tier access system. While players, officials, and team staff are expected to receive exemptions, analyses indicate that fans from affected nations may be unable to attend matches in the US, with additional visa requirements—including refundable bonds of up to $15,000—further complicating travel plans.
