Iran’s football federation has confirmed that the country will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup but is demanding a series of guarantees from FIFA and tournament hosts over the safety and treatment of its delegation.
The Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) said it had submitted a 10-point list of conditions to FIFA ahead of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FFIRI President Mehdi Taj stated that Iran would “definitely participate” in the World Cup but insisted that host countries and FIFA must address Tehran’s concerns regarding visas, security arrangements, and treatment of Iranian players and officials.
Among the demands reportedly submitted by Iran are guarantees that all players and technical staff — including those who completed mandatory military service in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) — will receive visas without restrictions.
Iran is also seeking assurances that its national flag, anthem, and delegation will be treated respectfully throughout the tournament. The federation further requested enhanced security protection at airports, hotels, transportation routes, and stadiums connected to the team’s matches.
The issue has become increasingly sensitive because the United States and Canada classify the IRGC as a terrorist organisation, raising concerns that some Iranian players or officials could face visa complications.
The latest development comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel following months of regional conflict and diplomatic disputes. Questions over Iran’s World Cup participation had intensified earlier this year after Iranian officials hinted at a possible withdrawal over security fears.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has nevertheless maintained that Iran will participate in the tournament as scheduled. FIFA has reportedly invited Iranian football officials to Zurich for further discussions over the federation’s concerns.
Iran are drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand and are expected to be based in Tucson, Arizona, during the tournament. Their opening match is scheduled against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.
Iran have qualified for four consecutive FIFA World Cups and seven overall but are yet to progress beyond the group stage in the competition’s history.
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