FIFA has confirmed that the Iran national football team will participate in the 2026 World Cup and play all of its group-stage matches in the United States, despite heightened political tensions between Washington and Tehran.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced during the FIFA Congress in Vancouver that there should be no ambiguity over Iran’s participation and match locations.

According to the schedule, Iran will open its campaign on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles, face Belgium on June 21 at the same venue, and conclude the group stage against Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.

The decision comes amid strained US-Iran relations, with reports citing the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli operation earlier this year, which significantly escalated regional tensions.

FIFA has not commented on those reports.

Despite speculation that Iran’s matches could be relocated due to political concerns, the governing body has maintained the official schedule, stating that host nations are responsible for border and entry decisions.

However, uncertainty remains over Iran’s participation.

The head of the Iran Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, said recent military tensions and visa-related issues have raised doubts about whether the team can travel to the United States.

Canada has also reportedly denied entry to some Iranian football officials, adding further complications ahead of the tournament.

Experts say Iran’s fixtures, particularly in Los Angeles with its large Iranian diaspora, are likely to draw significant attention and could become politically sensitive during the global tournament.

FIFA acknowledged the challenges but reiterated that logistical and political matters relating to entry remain under the jurisdiction of host countries.