Ahmad Donyamali, Iranian Sports Minister, again referred to the request to play his matches outside the United States
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The participation of Iran's national team in the 2026 World Cup remains a complete mystery. A little more than two months after the start of the tournament and in the midst of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the Iranian governmentmaintains its position of not playing games on US soil and while the FIFA wants to continue with the already stipulated organization
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In this regard, in the last few hours, the Minister of Sports, Ahmad Donyamali, reiterated the request to the international body to transfer the matches to Mexico or, failing that, to Canada. “Our request to FIFA for Iran's matches to be moved from the United States to Mexico is still valid, but we haven't received a response yet. If accepted, Iran's participation in the World Cup will be assured. However, FIFA has not yet responded,” the official said
. Ahmad Donyamali assured that Iran will play in the World Cup if FIFA changes the venue of its matches
From Tehran, they stress that the presence of the team will depend on the security guarantees offered. “As Sports Minister, together with the Iranian Football Federation,we will keep the national team ready for the World Cup. However, the final decision will be made by our Government,” Donyamali added
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This position contrasts with that of the president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, who recently referred to the issue and was categorical in ruling out any change in the organization: “There is no plan B, C, or D with Iran. The matches will be held according to the current schedule.”
The geopolitical context complicates the scenario. Added to the military tension is the tightening of immigration policies promoted by Donald Trump, which included restrictions for Iranian citizens. Although the president noted that the team is welcome to compete, he also concealed that avoiding their presence could be a safer option
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On the Iranian side, the response was overwhelming: they believe that their right to participate cannot be violated, although they admit that the scenario is changing and will depend on the evolution of the conflict.
Iran's participation depends on the evolution of the conflict with the United States
With the three group stage games scheduled in the United States (against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles and against Egypt in Seattle), Iran's presence in the World Cup remains in doubt and its definition will depend on both political and sporting decisions in the
