IRAN IS FULLY PREPARED for its national football team’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Wednesday.
Per Al Jazeera, Mohajerani told state broadcaster IRIB that the Ministry of Sports and Youth has ensured all necessary arrangements for the team’s participation.
Iran has qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament and is placed in Group G, alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. As per the current schedule, their matches are slated to be held in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The United States will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. The tournament will feature 104 matches, beginning at Mexico City Stadium on June 11 and culminating at New York New Jersey Stadium with the final on 19 July.
The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, with the opening game scheduled in Mexico City and the final to be held in New Jersey.
Meanwhile, lead co-host US continues to muddy the waters. According to the Financial Times, US special envoy to Italy Paolo Zampolli, has argued that Italy, a four time world champion, should be included in place of Iran, despite failing to qualify on the pitch.
However, FIFA has moved quickly to shut down any speculation. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has clearly stated that there is “no Plan B” and confirmed that Iran will take part in the tournament as scheduled.
