FIFA has extended an invitation to the Iranian Football Federation to send a delegation to Zurich for discussions on preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The move comes as part of efforts to ensure Iran's participation in the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The invitation was confirmed by FIFA officials on May 5, 2026, according to reports from Iranian state media. The talks are expected to focus on logistical arrangements, team preparations, and potential political issues that could affect Iran's involvement.
Iran qualified for the World Cup in January 2026 after securing a spot in the Asian qualifiers. However, tensions between Iran and the United States have raised concerns about visa approvals and travel arrangements for the Iranian team and fans.
FIFA has stated that it is committed to ensuring that all qualified teams can participate without political interference. The Zurich meeting is seen as a step toward resolving any outstanding issues before the tournament begins in June 2026.
