Iran Sets Conditions for 2026 World Cup Participation

The Iran Football Federation (FFIRI) announced on Saturday that it will participate in the 2026 World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, but under specific conditions due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. FFIRI President Mehdi Taj stated that the federation seeks assurances regarding the treatment of the Iranian team, including visa grants, respect for the national flag and anthem, and high security at airports and hotels.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that while Iran's football team is welcome, there may be restrictions on members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which the U.S. designates as a terrorist organization.

The Iranian team is set to play in Tucson, Arizona, facing New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G, starting their campaign against New Zealand on June 15. Taj emphasized that no external power should prevent Iran from participating based on qualification merits.