Sports Desk; VANCOUVER – FIFA President Gianni Infantino has ended all speculation regarding Iran’s participation in the upcoming Football World Cup.
He confirmed that not only will Iran participate, but all of their group stage matches will take place in the United States.
Speaking at the FIFA Congress held yesterday in Vancouver, Canada, Infantino stated, “Iran will certainly participate in the World Cup, and their matches will be held in the USA.”
Group Stage Schedule
According to the tournament schedule, Iran will compete in the following matches:
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June 15: vs. New Zealand in Los Angeles.
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June 21: vs. Belgium in Los Angeles.
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June 26: vs. Egypt in Seattle.
Political Tensions and Visa Issues
While the schedule is set, political tensions remain a backdrop to the tournament. The situation recently became more complex when Iranian football officials, including Mehdi Taj, President of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), were reportedly barred from entering Canada for the FIFA Congress.
FIFA clarified that it does not have direct control over these matters, as host countries maintain their own sovereign border and immigration policies.
Significance of Venue Selection
The matches in Los Angeles are expected to draw significant attention. The city is home to one of the largest Iranian communities outside of the Middle East, which is likely to provide a unique atmosphere for the team’s opening fixtures.