INFANTINO INSISTS IRAN WILL COMPETE AT WORLD CUP, SAYS PLAYERS “MUST COME AND PLAY” DESPITE WAR TENSIONS

INFANTINO INSISTS IRAN WILL COMPETE AT WORLD CUP, SAYS PLAYERS “MUST COME AND PLAY” DESPITE WAR TENSIONS
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that Iran will participate in the upcoming World Cup, stressing that the team “has to come” and that its players are eager to compete, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Iran. Speaking at a CNBC forum, Infantino stated that Iran’s national team is confirmed for the tournament and dismissed uncertainty surrounding their participation amid the continuing conflict.

“The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes,” Infantino said. He added that FIFA hopes the situation will improve before the tournament begins, but emphasized that Iran’s qualification obligates their participation. “They represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play,” he said, underscoring FIFA’s position that sporting competition should proceed regardless of political disputes.

Infantino also revealed that he had recently met the Iranian squad in Antalya, Turkey, describing them as a strong and motivated team eager to take part in the global tournament. He stressed that football must remain separate from politics, although he acknowledged the challenges of maintaining that separation in a real-world geopolitical crisis. Iran’s participation in the World Cup had come under scrutiny following escalating tensions in the Middle East, including concerns over safety and political opposition from some international figures. Despite this, FIFA has consistently maintained that all qualified teams will participate as scheduled. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to feature Iran in group-stage matches held in North America, according to the official draw.

Infantino confirms Iran will participate in the World Cup

• Says “Iran has to come” as they qualified for the tournament.
• Calls for separation of sport from politics.
• Notes recent meeting with Iranian national team in Turkey.
• FIFA maintains commitment to full participation of all qualified teams.
• The statement reflects FIFA’s continued effort to maintain sporting neutrality amid rising geopolitical tensions. However, political pressure and security concerns remain key challenges as the tournament approaches.
• Despite the ongoing war-related tensions and diplomatic uncertainty, FIFA leadership insists Iran will take part in the World Cup, reinforcing its stance that football should proceed beyond political conflict.