Fifa chief Infantino insists Iran will play in World Cup: No Plan B
fifa president Gianni Infantino flew to Antalya and told Iran’s national team he expects them to play at the 2026 World Cup, rejecting contingency moves and pledging continued support. He met players and federation officials after the team beat Costa Rica 5-0 in a fanless friendly and posted a message of backing. Infantino said there is only one plan for Iran’s participation as the tournament set to begin on June 11 (ET) draws closer.
Fifa chief’s message in Turkey
Gianni Infantino, identified in his role as FIFA president, met Iran’s players and officials in the Turkish resort of Antalya after flying in from Florida. Infantino wrote in an Instagram post after leaving Turkey that “FIFA will continue to support the team to ensure the best possible conditions as they prepare for the World Cup. ” He told the delegation: “We want them to play; they are going to play in the World Cup. There are no Plans B or C or D; Plan A is the only plan. “
On-field signs and security concerns
Iran’s squad beat Costa Rica 5-0 in a match played without fans. Before the game, coach Amir Ghalenoei and federation vice president Mehdi Mohammad Nabi joined players and officials who posed with pictures of children described as victims of airstrikes since Feb. 28. The team previously held small backpacks before another warmup to honor victims of a deadly missile strike on an elementary school in southern Iran.
The ongoing conflict between Iran and other states has prompted vocal public debate about safety. U. S. President Donald Trump discouraged attendance and said he did not think it would be “appropriate” for Iran to take part “for their own life and safety. ” Iranian officials suggested moving Iran’s group-stage games to Mexico, while Infantino rejected relocation talk and affirmed that the schedule stands.
What the schedule and stakes look like
The tournament draw lists Iran in a group with New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, with Iran due to play two group-stage matches in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle. If Iran advances, a potential matchup with the United States in the round of 32 is possible under the current bracket. Infantino framed his position around the principle that the World Cup should proceed on sporting merit and that FIFA will act to “unite” teams amid a complex geopolitical situation.
What happens next
Teams and organizers now move into the final weeks of preparations before the World Cup begins on June 11 (ET). Iran will continue warmup fixtures and preparations while federation officials negotiate logistics for travel and security; Infantino has pledged fifa backing to ensure “the best possible conditions” for Iran’s participation. Observers should watch confirmation of travel plans, venue security statements from tournament organizers, and any official changes to match locations or the schedule in the coming days.
