Gianni Infantino proud to secure Iran's World Cup participation

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed pride in his team's efforts to ensure Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the ongoing war between Iran and the United States.

Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the tournament's opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca Stadium on June 11, Infantino revealed that he personally intervened to guarantee Iran's place in the competition.

"People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup. I promised them they will come, and if I have to go on a bus to Tehran and drive them here, I will do that," Infantino said.

"Their answer was, 'We will take the bus and drive ourselves if needs be. We qualified and we want to play. 'This is the spirit of football."

This year's World Cup is taking place against the backdrop of a war between Iran and the United States and its ally Israel. The tense situation has dominated global politics and forced Iran to make significant logistical adjustments.

Under the arrangement brokered by FIFA, Iran will reside in Mexico and fly to the United States to play their matches before returning to Mexico. Iran have been drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

"There are challenges, it's not easy… I am very happy we managed to get Iran to come and play. I am proud of the work of my team," Infantino added.

Infantino's comments underscore FIFA's determination to keep politics separate from sport, even as the world watches one of the most politically charged tournaments in history. The 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicks off with Mexico vs. South Africa on June 11.

For Infantino, ensuring Iran's presence is a victory for football's unifying power.

 

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