FIFA president Gianni Infantino made an unannounced visit to Antalya, Turkey on Tuesday to watch Iran's 5-0 friendly win over Costa Rica, publicly offering backing to the Iranian national side as its World Cup participation remains uncertain.
Iran has been pressing to move its World Cup fixtures from the United States to Mexico, citing concerns linked to U.S. military involvement alongside Israel in the strikes that ignited the current regional conflict. Iran's football federation confirmed this month that it has been in talks with FIFA about the proposed venue change.
At the same time, Iran's Sports Ministry has imposed a travel ban on national and club teams to any country it classifies as hostile, effective until further notice. Despite those domestic restrictions, FIFA has reiterated its position that it is expecting all qualified teams to play in the tournament according to the match schedule that was announced in December.
Infantino's message to the team
Speaking at the match, Infantino told Iranian media that he was pleased the team was holding its training camp and delivered a clear assurance: "We have only one plan for this team. Iran has qualified for the World Cup and will play in the tournament." He further pledged personal commitment, saying: "Personally, I will do whatever I can to make sure everything is in order."
Addressing the players directly, Infantino offered practical help related to their preparations - from organising training camps to other activities outside Iran - and invited them to remain in contact: "If you want to organise 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."
Context and schedule
Iran secured qualification for the World Cup after a dominant performance in the Asian qualifying rounds, clinching their place in March last year. Under the current schedule, Iran is set to play three Group G matches on U.S. soil - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle - where they are due to face Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.
Against the backdrop of the venue dispute, U.S. President Donald Trump commented earlier this month that while Iran's national team would be welcome to play in the United States, concerns remained about whether doing so would be appropriate for their "life and safety." Infantino did not address the broader political dispute at the match, saying he was "not pursuing politics" and focusing his remarks on support for the team and their preparations.
Standing positions
- FIFA - publicly expecting all qualified teams to compete under the December match schedule and offering the Iran team assistance for preparations abroad.
- Iranian officials - seeking relocation of World Cup matches from the U.S. to Mexico and imposing travel bans on teams to countries labelled hostile.
Infantino's attendance and statements underline FIFA's declared intent to facilitate Iran's participation, while the outcome of venue discussions and domestic travel restrictions remain unsettled.