Gianni Infantino has firmly stated that Iran national football team will take part in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States.
Speaking at CNBC’s Invest in America Forum, the FIFA president made it clear that, from a sporting standpoint, Iran’s place in the tournament is secure after successfully qualifying.
Even amid uncertainty surrounding the conflict, Infantino stressed that football must go on.
“The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes,” Infantino said.
“We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help.
“But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play.”
In the buildup to his remarks, Infantino revealed he had recently visited the Iranian squad during a training camp in Turkey, where he was impressed by both their quality and determination.
“I went to see them. They are actually quite a good team as well.
“And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics now.”
Nevertheless, the FIFA chief acknowledged the reality that global politics often intersects with international sport, even as governing bodies strive to maintain neutrality.
“OK we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth.
“But you know if there is nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well we are doing that job.”
Meanwhile, the upcoming World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is already shaping up to be one of the most politically sensitive tournaments in recent memory.
Iran is scheduled to play group-stage fixtures in Inglewood, California, and Seattle, adding another layer of complexity given the current tensions.
Recent developments, including reported airstrikes involving the U.S. and Israel, have cast doubt over participation, while conflicting statements from Iranian officials have further fueled uncertainty.
Adding to the narrative, Donald Trump has publicly discouraged Iran’s involvement, citing safety concerns ahead of the tournament.
Still, as the countdown to kick-off continues, FIFA’s stance remains clear: Iran has qualified on merit, and as things stand, they will take their place on football’s biggest stage.
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