Iran displayed a symbolic tribute to war victims before crushing Costa Rica 5-0. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran's definite participation in the 2026 World Cup.
On 1 April 2026 GMT+7, the Iranian national team players made a symbolic gesture to remember those who died in the conflict before their recent friendly match, where they defeated Costa Rica 5-0 in Antalya, Turkey, on 31 March. FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the match and confirmed the team's status for the 2026 World Cup.
Before kickoff, the Iranian players and coaching staff held photos of children who died in airstrikes in Iran in February, as a tribute and to send a message to the global community about the impact of war on innocent civilians.
This followed their match against Nigeria on 27 March, where Iranian players wore black armbands and placed schoolbags on the field during the national anthem ceremony to commemorate an attack on a primary school in Minab that killed many students and teachers.
A key highlight beyond the score was FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s presence in the stands. During halftime, he gave an exclusive interview to the media to dispel rumors about Iran withdrawing or issues regarding match venues.
"Iran will definitely appear in the World Cup. That’s why we are here. They are a strong team, and I am very happy to see them play," Infantino said. .
Additionally, the FIFA president said he met with players and staff in the locker room to confirm "everything is in order," assuring that Iran’s group stage matches will proceed as planned in the United States despite political concerns. FIFA believes football can serve as a medium to promote peace.
Iran's 2026 World Cup schedule (Group G):
15 June 2026: vs New Zealand (SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles)
21 June 2026: vs Belgium (SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles)
26 June 2026: vs Egypt (Lumen Field, Seattle)
