Iran’s participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 was initially uncertain due to the ongoing war with the US and Israel. However, the Iranian national team has qualified for the tournament, finishing atop their group in the AFC qualifying tournament. This marks Iran’s fourth consecutive appearance in the men’s World Cup and its sixth in the last eight tournaments.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran’s participation, stating, “Iran will be at the World Cup.” He emphasized FIFA’s commitment to ensuring all teams participate in the tournament, adding, “Fifa is looking forward to all teams participating at the World Cup to compete in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect.”
Iran’s first Group G game is scheduled against New Zealand on June 15, 2026. The tournament will feature a total of 48 teams, an increase of 16 teams from the previous tournament, and will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
In a notable development, Curacao will become the smallest nation to play in a World Cup. The opening game of the tournament will be held in Mexico City, while the final match is set for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New York-New Jersey.
The draw for the World Cup took place on December 5, 2025, and Iran’s matches are scheduled to be played in the United States as per the draw. Despite the geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran, the Iran Football Federation has stated, “No one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup.”
As the tournament approaches, uncertainties remain regarding the final list of teams qualified, as there are still two spots available. Additionally, the impact of geopolitical tensions on the tournament remains unclear. Details remain unconfirmed.
Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina, expressed support for Iran’s participation, stating, “I believe that he has to be there, for the sake of football, but it’s not me who decides.”
