FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Tuesday expressed support for Iran’s preparations for the World Cup and was present for the 5-0 friendly win over Costa Rica in Turkey, even as its participation in the tournament is in limbo due to tensions in the Middle East.
Infantino’s surprise appearance came as Iran continued to push for the team’s World Cup matches to be moved from the US to Mexico, citing US military involvement alongside Israel in attacks that sparked the current regional war.
The Iranian federation said earlier this month it was in talks with FIFA over the venue change, while Iran’s Sports Ministry has banned national and club sports teams from traveling to countries it considers hostile until further notice.
However, FIFA has insisted it looks forward to all participating teams “competing against each other according to the fixture schedule” announced in December.
«I am very happy that the Iranian national team is currently holding its training camp… We have only one plan for this team. Lihat juga df6JSLs. Iran has qualified for the World Cup and will play in the tournament,» Infantino told Iranian media during the match in Antalya.
“Personally, I will do everything I can to make sure everything is fine.”
Iran, which dominated the Asian qualifying rounds and booked its place at the tournament in March last year, will play all three Group G matches on American soil – two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle – against Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.
INFANTINO PROMISES SUPPORT TO IRAN TEAM
Speaking directly to the Iranian team, Infantino pledged his support but steered clear of the broader issues surrounding the dispute, saying they were «not pursuing politics.»
US President Donald Trump said earlier this month that while the Iranian national team was welcome to play in the US, doing so might not be appropriate for their «lives and safety».
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“From now until the World Cup, I will do everything I can to support the Iranian national team,” Infantino said.
“If you want to organize a training camp or if there is something related to activities outside the country, whatever it is, I will help you.
«Whenever you want, stay in touch. I am at your service and will help you with anything you need.»
Published on March 31, 2026
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