Iran confirms it will participate in the 2026 World Cup but has submitted 10 conditions to FIFA and the hosts.
On 10 May 2026, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) officially confirmed that the men's national team will compete in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In a statement on their official website, they said, “We will definitely participate in the 2026 World Cup, but the hosts must address our concerns.”
However, FFIRI President Mehdi Taj stated on state television that there are 10 conditions covering visa issues, security, treatment of officials, and matchday protocols.
Iran's 10 conditions are as follows:
1. Visa without obstacles — All players and staff must receive visas without problems, including those who have served in the IRGC such as Mehdi Taremi and Ehsan Hajsafi.
2. Respect for the national flag and anthem — Iran's national anthem must be played correctly and without interruption at every match.
3. High security — Strict security measures must be implemented at airports, hotels, and stadiums.
4. Respectful treatment of officials — The national team and delegation must be treated with respect.
5. Flags at the stadium — Only the flags of the two competing teams should be displayed during each match.
6. Visas for Iranian journalists — Journalists and team supporters must be granted visas easily and not subjected to questioning by immigration officials after receiving visas.
7. Limited questions at press conferences — Journalists must restrict their questions to football-related topics only.
8. Security for travel routes — Escort protection must be provided for travel between accommodations and stadiums.
9. Visas for Iranian fans — Fans must be facilitated in obtaining visas.
10. FIFA guarantees — FIFA must officially confirm and take responsibility for these conditions.
Iran is in Group G, with all three matches to be played in the United States: against New Zealand on 15 June, Belgium on 21 June, and Egypt on 26 June.