FIFA President Infantino Confirms Iran's Participation in World Cup Amidst US Tensions

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed confidence that Iran will participate in the World Cup, despite the country's sports minister stating that it cannot participate due to the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel.

Infantino told CNBC that Iran 'has to come' to the tournament, emphasizing that the team will travel to the US 'for sure.' This statement comes as the country is currently under a Pakistan-brokered two-week ceasefire with the US and Israel.

The Iranian team has qualified for the World Cup and wants to participate, Infantino said, adding that he recently visited the team at its training camp in Antalya, Turkey. He stressed that 'sports should be outside of politics' and that FIFA aims to keep the two separate.

Iran's sports minister had requested a relocation of their team's games from the US to Mexico, citing safety concerns. However, FIFA has ruled out a relocation, citing logistical impediments and promising safety for the Iranian players and staff.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group stage games on the US West Coast, with matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. If they advance to the knockouts, the rest of their games would also be held in the US.

Infantino, who has a close relationship with US President Trump, expressed hope that the situation will be peaceful by the time the tournament begins. He emphasized that Iran's participation is crucial, as they represent their people and have qualified for the tournament.