FIFA has confirmed that it held what it described as “excellent” and “constructive” talks with Iranian football officials to ensure Iran’s full participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including its scheduled group‑stage matches inside the United States. The meeting, held in Istanbul between FIFA

Secretary‑General Mattias Grafström and Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj, came after weeks of uncertainty surrounding Iran’s ability to compete on U.S. soil due to visa delays and political complications. Grafström said FIFA is working closely with Iran and looks forward to welcoming the team to the tournament, signaling that the organization intends to keep Iran’s match schedule exactly as planned.

Iran had previously requested that its matches be moved from the United States to Mexico, citing political tensions and concerns about securing entry visas for players and staff, but FIFA rejected the proposal and insisted that the fixtures will remain in the U.S. FIFA President Gianni Infantino reinforced this position, stating that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and will play its matches in the United States as scheduled. According to Taj, Iran presented ten specific concerns during the meeting, most of them related to visas, security arrangements, and travel logistics, and he said FIFA offered solutions to all ten issues.

Iran is expected to train in Turkey before traveling to its World Cup base in Tucson, Arizona, ahead of its U.S.‑based group matches. The talks appear to have eased one of the most politically sensitive uncertainties ahead of the tournament, and both FIFA and Iran say preparations are now moving forward without disruption. As always, readers should confirm details with trusted news sources.