FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom says he is confident Iran will take part in the 2026 World Cup after holding what he called a positive and constructive meeting with Iranian football officials.
Grafstrom met Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj in Istanbul on Saturday as questions continued over Iran’s participation in the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Iran had faced uncertainty after recent tensions involving the United States and Iran, along with visa concerns linked to travel restrictions.
Grafstrom said FIFA is working closely with Iran and expects the team to be part of the tournament without issue.
“We’ve had an excellent meeting and constructive meeting together with the Iran FA,” Grafstrom said. “We’re working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them in the FIFA World Cup.”
Iran FA chief Mehdi Taj also described the talks in positive terms and said FIFA had listened to Iran’s concerns.
“I am pleased that they listened to Iran’s points and offered solutions for each of them,” Taj said. “I hope our national team can go to the World Cup without any problems.”
Grafstrom did not share specific details about visa or entry plans for Iran’s players, but he said both sides discussed all important operational matters.
Iran had asked FIFA to move their matches to Mexico, but FIFA President Gianni Infantino has insisted all group stage games will stay at their scheduled venues.
Iran will begin preparations with a training camp in Turkey before heading to their United States base in Arizona in early June.
Iran open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. They will also face Belgium and Egypt in Group C.
