The president of world football's governing body has confirmed that Iran will compete in the 2026 World Cup, despite recent geopolitical tensions involving Israel and the United States. Speaking at the 76th Congress in Vancouver, he made it clear that Iran will take part in the tournament and will play matches in the United States, one of the host nations.
The expanded 2026 tournament, which will feature 48 teams, will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The president stressed that football has a responsibility to bring people together and promote unity at a time of global divisions.
His remarks come after speculation that Iran might boycott the tournament due to political tensions. There were also reports of issues involving Iranian officials and Canadian immigration authorities during the Congress. Despite these developments, the governing body reaffirmed its position that Iran will participate in the global event.




