Iran's World Cup Journey Continues Despite Conflict

Iranian soccer officials have reported a productive week in their efforts to prepare for the World Cup games scheduled to be played in the United States in June. This progress comes amidst a period of heightened tension following military action involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran, beginning on February 28th.

Diplomacy in Turkey: Infantino Meets with Iranian Delegation

A face-to-face meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and representatives from the Iranian soccer federation in Turkey marked a significant step forward in “soccer diplomacy.” The Iranian federation described the meeting as positive, with no discussion of relocating World Cup matches to Mexico – a possibility Infantino has consistently dismissed over the past two weeks.

FIFA Offers Support for Team Preparation

Infantino pledged tangible support to help the Iranian squad prepare for the tournament over the next two months. Many Iranian players currently compete in the national league, which has been suspended due to the ongoing conflict.

Host Cities Prepare, Maintaining the Schedule

Officials in Arizona, where Iran is scheduled to hold its training camp, have affirmed their commitment to upgrades and security preparations. This echoes FIFA’s consistent message of maintaining the original schedule. Infantino further demonstrated his support by attending Iran’s 5-0 victory over Costa Rica in Antalya, Turkey.

Initial Concerns and Shifting Positions

The outbreak of conflict initially raised doubts about Iran’s participation in the World Cup, secured in March 2025 as one of Asia’s top teams. Early in March, Iranian government officials suggested the team might be unable to play or travel to the U.S., and even proposed moving Iran’s games to Mexico. However, talk of a boycott or relocation has since subsided.

Mexico's Position and US President Trump's Comments

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum indicated that hosting Iran’s games was potentially feasible, though she did not actively advocate for a schedule change. U.S. President Donald Trump offered varying statements, expressing indifference, raising concerns about player safety, and promising a welcoming reception.

FIFA Remains Consistent, Schedule Confirmed

FIFA, and particularly Infantino, have consistently maintained that Iran will participate in the U.S. World Cup and that the schedule will remain unchanged. He reiterated that there are no formal negotiations regarding a move to Mexico, stating there is only “Plan A.”

Training and Warm-Up Matches in Turkey

Due to the conflict, Iran’s scheduled warm-up matches against Nigeria and Costa Rica were relocated from Amman, Jordan, to Antalya, Turkey. These matches, played behind closed doors, marked the first competitive action for many Iranian players since the suspension of the Persian Gulf Pro League. During the national anthems, the Iranian team protested the military strikes by displaying children’s backpacks and photos of war victims.

Squad Concerns and Visa Issues

Star striker Sardar Azmoun was reportedly excluded from the squad due to a social media post featuring UAE political leaders. A significant challenge remains with visa denials for several Iranian delegation members, including federation president Mehdi Taj.

Upcoming Schedule and Ticket Sales

Iran is scheduled to arrive at its Tucson, Arizona training camp by June 10th, ahead of its first match against New Zealand on June 15th at the Los Angeles Rams stadium. Subsequent games are scheduled against Belgium in Inglewood on June 20th and Egypt in Seattle on June 26th. Approximately 200,000 tickets for Iran’s games have been sold, and a relocation to Mexico would necessitate compensating fans, broadcasters, and sponsors.