Iran’s Football Federation confirmed the national team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup while seeking guarantees from hosts the United States, Mexico and Canada over visas, security and treatment amid geopolitical tensions.
The FIFA World Cup trophy on display after its unveiling during its trophy tour with Coca-Cola India leadership at the Taj Mansingh hotel, in New Delhi on Saturday, January 10, 2026. (Photo: IANS/Wasim Sarvar)
Iran Football Federation has confirmed that Iran’s men’s football team will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup while calling on tournament co-hosts the United States, Mexico and Canada to address its concerns amid rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
The statement from the federation came weeks after Canada denied entry to federation president Mehdi Taj ahead of the FIFA Congress, citing alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Canada designated as a terrorist organisation in 2024.
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“We will definitely participate in the 2026 World Cup, but the hosts must take our concerns into account,” the federation said in a statement published on its official website and quoted by Al Jazeera.
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“We will participate in the World Cup tournament, but without any retreat from our beliefs, culture and convictions,” the statement added.
Iran has already secured qualification for the expanded 48-team World Cup and has been drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. According to the current schedule, Iran’s group-stage fixtures are expected to take place in Los Angeles and Seattle.
Speaking on Iranian state television, Mehdi Taj revealed that Tehran has submitted 10 conditions for participation in the tournament and is seeking guarantees over the treatment of the national team during the competition.
The reported demands include timely visa approvals, respect for Iran’s national flag and anthem, proper treatment of players and staff, and enhanced security arrangements at airports, hotels and stadium routes during the tournament.
Meanwhile, Marco Rubio said Iranian players would be welcome in the United States for the World Cup. However, he also indicated that members of the Iranian delegation with alleged ties to the IRGC could still face entry restrictions.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest edition in the tournament’s history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across the three host nations. The competition is scheduled to begin in Mexico City, while the final will be played in East Rutherford.
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