Antalya: FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed on Tuesday that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, seeking to quell uncertainty surrounding the team’s involvement as the conflict in the Middle East persists.

"Iran will be at the World Cup... That's why we're here. We're delighted because they're a very, very strong team, I'm very happy," Infantino told AFP.

The remarks were made during halftime of a friendly match between Iran and Costa Rica in Antalya, which Infantino attended unannounced. His presence served as a symbolic endorsement of "Team Melli" following weeks of geopolitical tension that has threatened to disrupt the tournament's logistics.

The Mexico Relocation Request

The Iranian Football Federation revealed earlier this month that it has been "negotiating" with FIFA to move its group-stage fixtures from the United States to Mexico. The request stems from safety concerns related to the ongoing war involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

While FIFA has previously indicated that the original schedule is firm due to advanced ticket sales and logistical commitments, the proposal gained traction when Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her country's readiness to intervene.

“Of course it is feasible,” Sheinbaum said during a recent press briefing, noting that Mexico maintains diplomatic ties with all nations and would be prepared to host Iran's opening round matches if FIFA deemed it necessary.

Security Concerns and Logistics

The controversy intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested in a social media post that the Iranian team should not travel to the United States "for their own life and safety." In response, Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj stated that the team would refuse to travel to American soil if their security could not be explicitly guaranteed.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is scheduled to begin June 11. Under the current draw, Iran is slated to open its Group G campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt.

Despite the friction, Infantino’s comments on Tuesday suggest that FIFA remains committed to ensuring Iran's inclusion, though the final venue for their matches remains a subject of intense diplomatic discussion.

With inputs from AFP