Italy will definitely stay at home: Infantino puts his foot down on the Iran issue

Iran's Participation in 2026 World Cup Confirmed

Despite ongoing Middle East hostilities and a US strike, Iran's national team is still scheduled to compete in the upcoming World Cup in the US, Mexico and Canada (11 June–19 July).

Infantino's Statement

FIFA President **Gianni Infantino** confirmed at the opening of the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on Thursday that **Iran** will participate in the **2026 World Cup**. The statement followed fresh rumours that **Iran** might be left out after its delegation cancelled its attendance at the congress, prompting speculation that **Italy**—already eliminated—could step in.

• **Iran** will participate in the **2026 World Cup**.
• The tournament will take place in the **US, Mexico, and Canada**.
• The tournament dates are **11 June–19 July**.

Iran's national team is still scheduled to compete in the upcoming World Cup.

No Replacement for Iran

The confirmation by **Infantino** puts an end to speculation that **Italy** could replace **Iran** in the tournament.