Iran’s national football team is continuing its preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, but a final decision on whether the squad will participate has yet to be made by the government, according to the country’s sports minister.
Speaking to local media, Sports and Youth Minister Ahmad Donyamali stated that the team’s travel to the United States will depend on guarantees regarding player safety. He emphasized that the matter will ultimately be decided by the government in consultation with the Supreme National Security Council.
Iran, also known as Team Melli, is scheduled to play all its World Cup matches in the United States—one of the tournament’s host nations, alongside Canada and Mexico. However, uncertainty has surrounded their participation since tensions escalated following the US-Israel conflict involving Iran earlier this year.
Despite the geopolitical situation, Donyamali confirmed that the team will continue training as planned to ensure readiness. He noted that while participation is not yet guaranteed, preparation remains essential in case approval is granted.
Iran’s football governing body, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, previously requested that FIFA relocate its matches خارج the United States. However, FIFA rejected the request, confirming that all fixtures will proceed as scheduled due to logistical constraints.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed confidence that Iran will take part in the tournament, despite earlier concerns raised by Donald Trump regarding the team’s safety. Infantino reiterated that Iran has earned its place through qualification and should be present at the competition.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities continue to link participation to both security assurances and developments in the ongoing conflict. Officials have indicated that a training camp will be organized if the team receives final approval to compete.
Preparations are already underway, with the squad set to begin a World Cup training camp on May 10. Last month, Iran held two international friendlies in Türkiye under heightened security and limited media coverage.
If cleared to participate, Iran will open its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26. All group-stage matches are scheduled to take place in the United States, with potential knockout fixtures also set to be hosted there.
The final decision is expected in the coming days as diplomatic developments continue to unfold.
