FIFA talks Iran World Cup participation after US entry concerns

FIFA held talks with Iran's football leaders on May 16, 2026, to confirm their World Cup participation. This follows US entry concerns for some Iranian individuals.
By Newsroom | Sports, International Relations |

Istanbul - In a move to settle concerns surrounding Iran's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, global football's governing body held what it termed "constructive and positive" talks with Iranian football officials. FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom met with Mehdi Taj, the president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), in Istanbul on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The discussions aimed to address logistical and operational matters, with FIFA expressing confidence in Iran's ability to compete.

FIFA holds ‘positive’ talks with Iranian football officials on World Cup - 1

The meetings occurred against a backdrop of significant geopolitical friction, stemming from recent escalations in the Middle East and diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran. These underlying hostilities had cast a shadow over Iran's planned participation in the tournament, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA, however, has consistently affirmed that Iran will be a participant.

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FIFA holds ‘positive’ talks with Iranian football officials on World Cup - 2

The FFIRI had reportedly requested that Iran's World Cup matches be relocated from the United States to Mexico. This plea was denied by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who insisted that all games would proceed as originally scheduled. Iran's itinerary includes matches against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by games against Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.

FIFA holds ‘positive’ talks with Iranian football officials on World Cup - 3

While Grafstrom described the exchange as "very good" and expressed confidence in Iran's presence at the World Cup, he declined to offer specific details regarding assurances for player entry and visa arrangements. FIFA officials did, however, outline tournament logistics and protocols, seeking to ensure a "seamless, productive and enjoyable" experience for the Iranian team.

FIFA holds ‘positive’ talks with Iranian football officials on World Cup - 4

These talks follow statements from US officials, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who indicated in April that Iran's soccer team would be welcomed but individuals with suspected links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) could face entry restrictions. The FFIRI delegation also held discussions with leaders from the Turkish Football Federation during their visit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did FIFA discuss with Iran on May 16, 2026?
FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom met Iran's football president Mehdi Taj in Istanbul to talk about Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup. They discussed logistics and operations to ensure a smooth experience for the Iranian team.
Q: Why were FIFA and Iran talking about World Cup participation?
Talks happened because of worries about Iran's ability to compete due to geopolitical tensions and potential US entry issues for some Iranian individuals. FIFA wanted to make sure Iran could play as planned.
Q: Will Iran's World Cup matches be moved from the US?
No, FIFA President Gianni Infantino denied Iran's request to move their matches from the United States to Mexico. All games will happen as planned in the US.
Q: What are the specific concerns about Iran entering the US for the World Cup?
US officials mentioned that while the soccer team would be welcomed, individuals with suspected ties to the IRGC might face entry problems. FIFA did not give specific details about player entry and visa arrangements but discussed tournament protocols.
Q: Where and when will Iran play its World Cup games?
Iran is scheduled to play New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, 2026. They will also play Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle later in the tournament.