FIFA President Gianni Infantino said Iran plans to play on U.S. soil during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but there are currently no backup plans. The statement comes as the tournament approaches and geopolitical tensions continue to be part of broader discussions.
The 2026 edition will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and will be the first expanded tournament with 48 teams. This format increases the possibility of teams being scheduled across multiple host countries, including a game in the United States where Iran could potentially play.
FIFA’s stance is rooted in the standard principle that sporting competitions should proceed independently of political disputes.
Why is there no “Plan B” at this point?
Infantino has publicly stated that FIFA is not working on alternative scenarios for Iran. Simply put, the governing body expects all eligible teams, including Iran, to participate under the same framework as other countries.
That includes playing games at locations set out in the official schedule, even if that means entering the United States, which has a complicated political relationship with Iran. FIFA’s stance is rooted in the standard principle that sporting competitions should proceed independently of political disputes.
Infantino publicly stated that FIFA is not working on alternative scenarios against Iran
What still needs to be figured out
Although FIFA’s position is firm, there are still practical questions. Immigration requirements, visa procedures and security arrangements are elements that typically involve national governments as well as football authorities.
So far, officials have said they expect a solution to be found to ensure participation. Similar situations have occurred in past tournaments, but each case depends on the current diplomatic situation.
The bottom line for fans is simple. As it stands, Iran’s path to the World Cup includes the possibility of playing in the United States, which FIFA is treating as the default scenario rather than the exception.
