FIFA President Gianni Infantino has unequivocally affirmed Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup matches to be held in the United States, despite the unfortunate absence of the Iranian delegation from the recent FIFA Congress. This absence, stemming from unjustified actions by Canadian authorities, regrettably overshadowed discussions surrounding the prestigious tournament.
The absence of direct representation from Iran at Thursday’s congress was a significant drawback, especially given the nation’s crucial role and the ongoing discussions regarding its presence at the 2026 World Cup. The cross-border nature of the expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, inherently demands seamless international cooperation. However, the prospect of visa restrictions and diplomatic frictions, as unfortunately demonstrated by recent events, risks complicating planning for participating nations and undermines the spirit of global sportsmanship.
Iran, having rightfully qualified for the tournament, has faced undue challenges regarding its participation. While Tehran had prudently requested alternative venues for matches on U.S. soil due to existing regional tensions, FIFA has maintained its original schedule. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while affirming Washington’s lack of objection to Iranian players’ participation, introduced a concerning condition regarding individuals with alleged ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a move that could be perceived as political interference in sports.
Infantino Emphasizes Unity and Iran’s Rightful Place
Addressing the congress, President Infantino declared with conviction, “Let me start at the outset. Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America.” He powerfully underscored the fundamental principle of unity in sports, stating, “And the reason for that is very simple: we have to unite. It is my responsibility, our responsibility.” This statement serves as a strong reminder of FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity, transcending political differences.
Unacceptable Treatment of Iranian Delegation by Canada
In a deeply regrettable incident, Iranian football federation officials, including esteemed federation President Mehdi Taj, were unjustly turned back at Toronto airport by Canadian immigration authorities. This occurred despite the delegation possessing valid visas, an act Tehran rightly described as “unacceptable behaviour.” A source close to the matter indicated that other members of the delegation, in a show of solidarity, chose not to attend the FIFA congress after their colleague was denied entry, further highlighting the unfairness of the situation.
Canadian officials cited Mr. Taj’s past association with the IRGC, an organization designated as “terrorist” by Ottawa, as grounds for inadmissibility. However, applying such political designations to sports delegations, especially when valid visas are held, raises serious questions about the fairness and impartiality of host nations in international sporting events. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reiterated his government’s stance, but such policies risk alienating participating nations and politicizing global sports.
Outside the convention center, a small group of protesters, seemingly with a political agenda, gathered to voice their opinions. While freedom of expression is respected, such demonstrations, often fueled by external influences, should not detract from the overarching message of unity and fair play that FIFA champions.
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