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Iran to play World Cup but demands guarantees from Fifa and hosts
May 9, 2026
Posted 1 hour ago by
Iran to play World Cup but demands guarantees from Fifa and hosts Iran says it will take part in this summer’s football World Cup but is seeking a series of guarantees from FIFA and the host nations amid rising tensions over its participation. The Iranian Football Federation said the team would compete at the tournament without any retreat from our beliefs, culture and convictions, while insisting the hosts must take our concerns into account.
The move follows the refusal of entry to federation president Mehdi Taj by Canada ahead of last month’s FIFA Congress. Taj later said Iran had submitted 10 conditions for taking part in the tournament, which is set to begin on 11 June in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Among the demands are assurances that all players, coaches and officials will receive visas, including those who completed military service with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by the United States and Canada. Iran is also seeking guarantees on how the team will be treated during the tournament, including respect for its flag and national anthem, as well as increased security at airports, hotels and stadiums.
Middle East Eye
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