sports
Iran team is 'coming for sure' to 2026 World Cup in U.S., says FIFA President Infantino
Amid war with the U.S., Iran's participation in the World Cup is uncertain. But FIFA President Gianni Infantino tells CNBC they will play in North America.
TL;DR
- Iran's men's national soccer team qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
- Political tensions between the U.S. and Iran have raised questions about the team's participation.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran will participate, stating, "Iran has to come, of course."
- Infantino believes sports should be separate from politics and noted the Iranian team wants to play.
- Iran's group stage matches are scheduled in the U.S.; a request to move them to Mexico was denied.
- The 2026 World Cup is projected to be FIFA's largest, with unprecedented ticket demand.
- Security is a key concern for the tournament, with Infantino aiming for a successful event free of incidents.