Iran’s World Cup status uncertain after mixed statements from officials

A file photo of the Iranian players celebrating.

TEHRAN, March 12, (Agencies): Iran has confirmed that its men’s national football team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, despite ongoing political and military tensions and recent controversies involving the women’s national team in Australia.

Following intensive consultations between the Iranian Football Federation, the Ministry of Sports, and security authorities, federation president Mehdi Taj, in agreement with Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, emphasized that Iran is committed to taking its rightful place in the tournament.

Taj stressed that the team earned its qualification on merit, saying it was not granted a spot as a favor.

In response to what Tehran described as “political interference” affecting the women’s team, Iran has demanded that FIFA and the U.S. government, as host of their group, provide full, documented security guarantees. These assurances must ensure the safety of all delegation members and protect them from political pressure or harassment during training and official matches.

Earlier, Iran’s sports and youth minister said it's "not possible” for the country to take part in the World Cup after the United States.

Iran was expected to take part in the World Cup that will be held across North America in June, but the Iranian Sports and Youth Minister told state television that his country’s soccer team players are not safe in the U.S., according to a video of the interview posted.

They have imposed two wars on us over just eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people - definitely we can’t take part in the World Cup,” he said.

Iran is scheduled to play in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21 before finishing group play against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The U.S. is hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

FIFA said Tuesday night that it anticipates Iran’s national team will be allowed to come to the United States.

Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump said, "I really don’t care” if Iran takes part in the 48-nation tournament.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he met with Trump on Tuesday night "to discuss the status of preparations” for the tournament and received assurances that Iran would be permitted to come to the U.S.