FIFA: Iran to Compete in 2026 World Cup

Speaking at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered a resolute statement regarding the Iranian national team's eligibility for the globe's premier football tournament.

The Iranian national team will still participate in the 2026 World Cup

“Iran will certainly participate in the 2026 World Cup and, naturally, will compete in the U.S. The reason is quite simple: football must bring people together.”

The draw has placed Iran in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. On paper, a star-studded Belgian squad featuring top European league talent remains the overwhelming favorite to win the group. Consequently, the battle for the second qualifying spot is expected to be a fierce contest between Iran and Egypt. Meanwhile, despite being considered the underdogs, New Zealand remains an unpredictably dangerous "dark horse" given their notoriously disruptive aerial style of play.

Iran's Match Schedule:

• June 16 – SoFi Stadium, California vs. New Zealand

• June 22 – SoFi Stadium, California vs. Belgium

• June 27 – Lumen Field, Seattle vs. Egypt