Infantino Confirms Iran Participation In 2026 World Cup Matches In USA

Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran national football team will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with group-stage matches scheduled to be played in the United States despite heightened security measures and strict travel restrictions.

Speaking during a CNBC forum in Washington on April 15, 2026, Infantino made it clear that Iran’s participation is fully confirmed, stating the team is “coming for sure” as FIFA finalises operational planning across host cities.

Iran, who secured qualification in March 2025, are set to play two of their group matches in Inglewood, California, and a third in Seattle under the current tournament schedule. Attempts to relocate their fixtures were unsuccessful, with Mexican authorities confirming that FIFA rejected a request to shift Iran’s matches to Mexico.

The expanded 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, with the United States hosting the majority of the fixtures. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, in the New York-New Jersey venue cluster, capping a six-week tournament expected to deliver massive economic impact.

FIFA projects the competition will generate approximately $11 billion (about KSh 1.5 trillion) in revenue, while broader economic output could reach $80.1 billion (around KSh 10.9 trillion), including $30.5 billion (KSh 4.1 trillion) within the United States alone.

Infantino emphasised that the tournament will serve as a financial engine for global football development, with revenues supporting funding programs across FIFA’s 211 member associations.

However, Iran’s participation comes against a complex geopolitical backdrop. New United States travel restrictions affecting countries including Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast have created a two-tier access system for the tournament.

While players, officials, and team staff will be allowed entry under special exemptions, fans from affected countries face significant barriers. Analysis from the Council on Foreign Relations indicates that supporters holding those passports may not be able to attend matches hosted in the United States under current policies.

Further complicating travel plans, the US has introduced a Visa Bond Pilot Program requiring certain visitors to pay refundable bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 (approximately KSh 650,000 to KSh 1.95 million), depending on consular discretion.

Despite these challenges, FIFA remains focused on ensuring smooth delivery of the tournament, with Infantino linking Iran’s confirmed participation to match integrity and player availability.

As preparations intensify, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up not only as the largest in history but also one of the most politically and logistically complex global sporting events ever staged.