FIFA is at a crossroads over how to handle Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, especially in the context of tensions between the country and one of the hosts, the United States. Despite the conflict and travel restrictions imposed by the administration of US President Donald Trump, there are no provisions in FIFA regulations that prevent Iran from playing its group matches on US territory.
Iran, which already faced the US in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, qualified in March for its fourth consecutive World Cup appearance. Although the tournament will also be hosted by Canada and Mexico, only a specific assignment in Group A would allow Iran to avoid playing in the US, moving its matches initially to Mexico.
Travel restrictions and possible exceptions
The US immigration ban on Iranian citizens includes an exemption that could apply to players, coaching staff, and family members associated with teams participating in the 2026 World Cup. However, the situation remains uncertain, as any progress by Iran beyond the group stage could force them to play on US soil.
If Iran wins Group A, it would remain in Mexico for the round of 16 and quarter-final matches. However, if it advances beyond that stage, it would have to play matches in the United States, a scenario it has never reached in its World Cup history.
FIFA’s stance and the UEFA precedent
FIFA has not yet issued any official comments on the situation, although it is expected to make a decision before the World Cup draw in December. FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces a complex decision, especially after having closely associated himself with Donald Trump, who recently authorized military action against Iran, for the current Club World Cup.
A possible precedent to follow could be that of UEFA, which in 2022 decided to keep Ukraine and Belarus separate in the draws for its competitions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA president and current chairman of FIFA’s competition organizing committee, could be key in the final decision.
