In a strong show of solidarity, FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended Iran’s international friendly against Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkey, on Tuesday, using the occasion to reaffirm Iran’s full participation in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States—the latter a co-host of the tournament alongside Mexico and Canada—Infantino insisted that the football schedule remains unchanged and that Iran will compete as planned.

"Iran will be at the World Cup," Infantino declared during a press interaction with AFP, emphasizing, "That’s what we’re here for. The matches will be where they are supposed to be, according to the draw." He added, "I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach. So, everything’s fine. We’re delighted because they are a very, very strong team. I’m very happy."

Infantino arrived in Turkey on the day of the match and held meetings with both the coaching staff and players of Team Melli, as well as senior Iranian football officials. Later, his official Instagram account shared a message congratulating the Iranian squad on their qualification, stating: "I congratulated Team Melli once again on their qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and for making millions of people in IR Iran and around the world proud."

"Representing a nation comes with great responsibility, and I encouraged the players to continue inspiring their fans and making their people dream on the global stage,"

the post continued. "Football brings unity and hope, even in the most challenging circumstances, and FIFA will continue to support the team to ensure the best possible conditions as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup. I look forward to seeing them deliver a positive message of humanity and togetherness to the world."

This comes amid concerns that Iran may boycott matches on U.S. soil. Earlier this month, Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, stated that the team would not travel to the United States this summer, citing security concerns following threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly claimed he could not guarantee the safety of the Iranian delegation.

Iran has reportedly entered negotiations with FIFA to potentially relocate its group-stage matches to Mexico. However, FIFA has maintained a firm stance: the tournament schedule, finalized during the official draw on December 6, 2025, will not be altered. A FIFA spokesperson affirmed: "FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026. We are looking forward to all teams competing as per the match schedule announced on December 6, 2025."

Iran is slated to play Belgium and New Zealand in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle—two U.S. cities hosting World Cup group stage games. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing war between Iran and a U.S.-Israel military coalition, which began in late February after a joint air assault killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Retaliatory strikes have since escalated across the Middle East, creating a fraught backdrop for Iran's participation.

Despite the turmoil, Infantino’s visit and public statements underscore FIFA’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tournament and its mission to use football as a unifying global force. As preparations continue, the world will be watching not just the games—but the powerful message Iran’s presence may send in one of sport’s most politically charged moments.