Iran Confirms 2026 World Cup Participation

Iran's football federation has confirmed the national team's participation in the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The announcement, made on Saturday, came with a demand that the host nations take Tehran's concerns over the treatment of its players and coaching staff seriously.

Mehdi Taj, the head of the federation and a former member of the Revolutionary Guard, stated that visas must be granted without obstacles to all players and technical staff, particularly those who served in the Guard. His remarks were carried by Iranian media outlets.

Conditions for Participation

In a statement published Friday by the official Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Taj laid out conditions for Iran's participation. These included guarantees regarding visas, security, and the treatment of Iranian players and officials. He added that the country would take part in the event without abandoning its convictions, beliefs, or culture.

The team represents a nation that has been in a fragile truce with the United States following a war with Israel that began on February 28. Iranian citizens are currently subject to a travel ban imposed by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Group Stage and World Cup History

The draw placed Iran in Group Seven of the tournament alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. Iran will open its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Inglewood, near Los Angeles.

This marks Iran's fourth consecutive World Cup appearance and its seventh overall. The team has never advanced past the group stage. Iran is ranked 21st in the FIFA world rankings and lost only one match during the Asian qualifiers.