Infantino says he is proud of FIFA's work securing Iran's entry but admits he cannot control everything after referee denied US visa

FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks at a press conference Thursday. [EPA]
FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks at a press conference Thursday. [EPA]

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised his organization's efforts in securing Iran's participation in the 2026 North America World Cup, despite the sanctioned nation's fraught relationship with host country the United States.

Speaking at the tournament's opening press conference at Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, Infantino said he had personally promised Iran's national team would attend. "I promised that the Iranian team would come to the competition. I am really happy that Iran can participate in the World Cup," he said. "I am proud of our team's achievement."

Iran, drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, must play all three of its group-stage matches on US soil. Tensions stemming from the war between the two countries led the team to move its base camp from the United States to Mexico. After a prolonged process, Iran's players secured the visas needed to enter the US, though their permitted length of stay is reported to be restricted.

Infantino was unapologetic in claiming credit for the outcome. "People said Iran would not be able to participate in the World Cup, but I said that if necessary, I would personally take a bus to Tehran and bring the players myself," he said. "There are many difficulties and it is not easy, but I am not sure who else could have made it possible for Iran to come and play under these circumstances."

He added that Iran's matches were expected to sell out and expressed hope for a positive atmosphere. "Football is about people forgetting reality and focusing on the game and the team," he said.

Asked about the controversy surrounding Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the United States ahead of the tournament, Infantino said the situation was regrettable but beyond FIFA's control. "We will do our best to discuss and monitor the situation," he said.

The North America World Cup kicks off Friday at Mexico City Stadium with a Group A opener between Mexico and South Africa at 4 a.m. Korean Standard Time. The tournament is the first time three nations have co-hosted the event and features an expanded field of 48 teams, making it the largest World Cup in history.


yjc@heraldcorp.com