FIFA's Secretary General has held positive talks with the Iran Football Federation as they seek solutions ahead of the nation's participation in the 2026 World Cup, which had been cast into doubt due to ongoing political tensions.
Constructive Dialogue Between FIFA and Iran FA
Mattias Grafstrom, a key figure within FIFA, engaged in constructive discussions with Iran's FA President Mehdi Taj. He expressed confidence that Iran will appear at the World Cup, despite the political issues between Iran and the United States.
Iran are scheduled to play all three of their group matches in the United States, but their participation in the tournament has been questioned since the US and Israel attacked Iran in February. Further concerns arose when Taj was refused entry to Canada for the FIFA Congress in Vancouver earlier this month due to his links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Iran had requested to play their matches outside the US, proposing co-hosts Mexico as an alternative, but FIFA President Gianni Infantino turned down that request, maintaining that the original plan would proceed.
FIFA's Assurance and Iran's Conditions
Despite the political issues, FIFA's Secretary General believes Iran will be present. He stated: "We've had an excellent and constructive meeting together with the Iran FA. We're working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them to the FIFA World Cup."
Grafstrom did not provide details on the visa situation for Iran's players but insisted that positive dialogue had taken place. Iran's football chief acknowledged that the points and concerns raised were listened to, with solutions offered.
He told Reuters: "I am pleased that they listened to Iran’s points, all 10 points that we had raised, and they offered solutions for each of them. I hope, God willing, that our national team can go to the World Cup without any problems and achieve very good results there. We've discussed all relevant matters, but I think it's not the place to discuss the details. Overall, a very positive meeting and we’re looking forward to continuing the dialogue."
Background and Schedule
Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran were "welcome to the World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety."
Iran are scheduled to play New Zealand on 15 June and Belgium on 21 June, both in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle on 26 June. The team will be based in Tucson, Arizona. The possibility exists that Iran could face the US in the last 32 in Dallas if both teams finish second in their respective groups.
FIFA have been adamant that Iran will feature in the World Cup, and the recent talks have reinforced that stance.
