SOCCER: Infantino says Iran will play World Cup matches in US as planned

ANTALYA, Turkey – FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed on Tuesday that Iran will play its World Cup matches in the United States this June as scheduled, despite the country’s ongoing conflict with tournament co-hosts.

The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) had requested moving the team’s three Group G matches from the U.S. to Mexico, citing American military involvement alongside Israel in strikes that triggered the current regional war. Iran’s sports ministry has also banned national and club teams from travelling to countries it considers hostile until further notice.

During a surprise visit to Turkey to watch Iran’s 5-0 friendly win over Costa Rica, Infantino dismissed the idea of a venue change.

“No, no, the matches will be where they should be according to the draw,” he told reporters in Antalya, where the Iranian squad has been holding a training camp.

“It looks like we’ll be in the right grounds. We’re delighted because they’re a very, very strong team, as we saw today. I’m very happy. I saw the team, I spoke to the players and the coaches.”

Iran, which secured its World Cup spot in March last year, is set to play all Group G matches in the U.S.—two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle—against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Iran’s national team but noted concerns for their “life and safety,” clarifying later that any potential threat would not come from the United States.

The squad for the training camp notably excluded UAE-based striker Sardar Azmoun amid Iranian media reports that he was expelled for a perceived act of disloyalty. Azmoun, who has 57 goals in 91 international matches, had posted a photo on Instagram with Dubai ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose Emirate has been targeted by Iranian strikes during the conflict.

Speaking directly to Iranian players, Infantino offered his support while avoiding the broader political issues.

“From now until the World Cup, I will do whatever I can to support the Iran national team,” he said. “If you want to organize a training camp or if there is any matter related to activities outside the country, whatever it is, I will help. Whenever you want, please stay in contact. I am at your service and will help with anything you need.”

The World Cup will be held across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

-Reporting by Rohith Nair, Ali Mohtadi and Reuters TV; additional writing by Nick Mulvenney; editing by Toby Davis and Peter Rutherford/Reuters