12 March 2026
Press reports have revealed the Iranian national team's readiness to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but under specific conditions. Accounts on the "X" platform quoted the Mehr News Agency confirming Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, provided that security guarantees are received from the United States and FIFA for the safety of the team's delegation, and that team members are able to participate in training and official matches under FIFA supervision without any problems.
This comes despite recent statements by Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, who hinted at the possibility of withdrawing from the global tournament.
Donyamali had stated on Wednesday that it would be difficult for his country's team to participate in the tournament under the current circumstances.
Just hours before the Iranian Sports Minister's statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced that he had received confirmation from US President Donald Trump that Iran was "welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States."
Iran qualified for the FIFA World Cup finals for the fourth consecutive time after topping Group A in the third round of Asian qualifiers last year.
The draw placed Iran in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.
