Mexico City. – A few hours before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his satisfaction with Iran’s participation in the tournament and stated his wish for the Asian team’s matches to take place in a positive atmosphere, despite the existing diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States.
During a press conference held at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, Infantino highlighted that football must serve as a space for unity between peoples, even in times of international conflict.
“I am happy to see Iran in the World Cup,” stated the head of world football, who insisted that the spirit of the tournament must prevail over political differences.
Difficulties for the Iranian delegation
The Iranian national team has faced various logistical obstacles to participate in the competition. As a consequence of immigration restrictions imposed by the United States, the team established its operations center in the Mexican city of Tijuana, from where it will travel to play its World Cup matches.
According to information provided by the Iranian authorities, several members of the delegation, including members of the technical and administrative staff, have not yet received authorization to enter United States territory.
Infantino acknowledged the complexity of the situation, although he viewed positively that the Asian team can compete in the world’s premier football event.
Iranian Federation denounces restrictions on its fans
The Iranian Football Federation also denounced that US authorities had limited the access of Iranian fans to the tournament’s matches through restrictions related to the issuance of tickets and visas.
In an official statement, the entity described the measure as contrary to the sporting spirit and regretted that, just days before the start of the championship, fans are encountering difficulties in supporting their national team.
Iranian sports authorities consider that these actions directly affect the experience of their fans during the World Cup.
Iran will debut on June 15
Iran will play the entire group stage on U.S. soil. Their debut will be on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles. Subsequently, they will face Belgium on June 21 and will close the first round against Egypt on June 27 in Seattle.
FIFA maintains the expectation that the competition will take place in an atmosphere of respect, coexistence, and sporting celebration, reaffirming football’s role as a tool capable of uniting cultures and nations beyond political differences.
With the 2026 World Cup ready to begin, Iran’s participation is shaping up to be one of the topics that will generate the most attention both on and off the pitch.
