FIFA Will Monitor Developments in Iran Ahead of 2026 World Cup

JAAKRTA - FIFA will monitor developments in Iran following the start of military action by the United States (US) - co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup this summer - and Israel against the Middle Eastern country, which has qualified for the tournament and is scheduled to play its group matches in the Uncle Sam's country.

US President Donald Trump, who received the FIFA Peace Prize from FIFA President Gianni Infantino in December 2025, announced the start of a missile attack on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, calling the mission a major combat operation.

Iran qualified for the 2026 World Cup finals through the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and will play against Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt in Group G, but with the launch of the attack by the US-Israel, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom said the situation would continue to be monitored.

"I read the news (about Iran) in the same way as you. We had a meeting and it's still too early to comment in detail, but we will monitor developments around all issues around the world."

"We have conducted the final round draw in Washington, which all teams participated in. Our focus is on a safe 2026 World Cup with all teams participating."

"We will continue to communicate as we always do with the three governments (hosts), as we always do in any circumstances. Everyone will be safe," Grafstrom said, as reported by ESPN.

Los Angeles will host two Iran matches, while Seattle will host a match against Egypt on June 26, 2026.

So far, there are two possibilities regarding Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, namely the Iranian National Team (Timnas) withdrawing or the United States refusing their participation in the 48-team tournament.