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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and will hold its matches in the United States, ending speculation about a possible return of Italy to the competition.
Speaking at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada, Infantino was emphatic in his stance:
" I confirm that Iran will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America ," he declared.
He also added: "The reason is very simple: because football should unite."
Tensions and the absence of the Iranian delegation
The FIFA Congress was held with the participation of most of the world's federations, including the Palestinian one, but without the presence of Iran. The Iranian delegation did not attend after being turned away by Canadian authorities.
According to Iranian authorities, the event was canceled due to what was described as “insulting behavior” by immigration officers at Toronto airport. The president and secretary general of the Iranian Federation were reportedly denied entry into the country.
Canada's Foreign Minister, Anita Anand, tried to defuse the situation, suggesting that the refusal may have been involuntary.
Iran schedule and matches
According to the current schedule, Iran will play its three group stage matches in the United States, specifically in Inglewood and Seattle. Its opponents in the group are:
New Zealand (June 15)
Belgium (June 21)
Egypt (June 26)
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition with 48 teams and will take place from June 11 to July 19, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
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