FIFA World Cup 2026 | Iran will compete 'for sure' despite war, asserts Gianni Infantino

The FIFA chief acknowledged that it was not always possible to achieve the separation of sports and politics.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has exuded confidence about Iran's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by USA, Mexico and Canada despite the escalating tension in the Middle East.

Speaking at CNBC's Invest in America Forum, Infantino said it is important that Iran participates in the FIFA World Cup even though its participation has been in doubt since the US and Israel launched airstrikes on the country.

"The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes," Infantino said. "We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play."

Infantino met with the Iranian national team in Antalya, Turkey, two weeks ago and said he was impressed.

"I went to see them. They're actually quite a good team as well," Infantino said. "And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should be outside of politics now."

Iran had requested FIFA move its games to Mexico, but the game's global governing body rejected the proposal.

Infantino acknowledged that it was not always possible to achieve the separation of sports and politics.

"OK we don't live on the moon, we live on planet Earth," Infantino said. "But you know if there's nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well we're doing that job."

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held from June 11 to July 19.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the the first in tournament history to feature 48 teams with Iraq being the last team to qualify

As per schedule, Iran is team due to play two of its group matches in Los Angeles (June 15 vs New Zealand, June 21 vs Belgium) and one in Seattle (June 26 vs Egypt).

(With inputs from agencies)