FIFA has invited the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) to its headquarters in Zurich for discussions regarding the country’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a source told AFP on Tuesday.
Iran’s involvement in the tournament—scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11, 2026 to July 19, 2026—has faced uncertainty following escalating tensions in the Middle East earlier this year.
According to the source, FIFA requested that FFIRI officials visit its Zurich base “by May 20 to prepare for the World Cup”.
Despite the concerns, FIFA President Gianni Infantino reaffirmed Iran’s participation during the recent FIFA Congress held in Vancouver.
“Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Infantino said.
“And of course, Iran will play (in) the United States of America.”
Iran’s delegation was notably absent from the 211-member congress following an incident involving Canadian border authorities.
Local reports indicated that FFIRI president Mehdi Taj, alongside two colleagues, returned to Iran after being “insulted” by immigration officials in Canada.
Canadian authorities had previously designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organisation in 2024, stating that individuals linked to the group are “inadmissible”.
Upon his return, Taj confirmed his intention to engage FIFA in discussions on several issues affecting Iran’s participation.
Iran is expected to base its team in Tucson during the tournament and has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.
The team is scheduled to begin its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, 2026.
The planned meeting in Zurich is expected to address logistical, diplomatic, and participation-related concerns as FIFA moves to ensure a smooth tournament amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
