US Officials Expect Iran Team to Arrive for World Cup 2026

US officials have outlined expected travel plans for Iran’s national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with 48 teams participating for the first time in the tournament’s history.

Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House task force for the tournament, said the US government anticipates Iran’s team arriving around June 10 to begin a training camp in Tucson, Arizona. 

The team is then expected to travel to Los Angeles for matches against New Zealand and Belgium before heading to Seattle to face Egypt.

The World Cup draw placed Egypt in Group G alongside Iran, Belgium, and New Zealand, setting up what is expected to be a highly competitive group.

Giuliani confirmed that organizational plans are proceeding as normal and include Iran’s participation. He stressed that preparations do not exclude any qualified team as part of the broader arrangements for the tournament.

Speaking to Politico from the White House, Giuliani also said that President Donald Trump has extended a direct invitation to Iran’s national team to visit the United States and take part in the competition. 

He clarified that he does not speak on behalf of the Iranian Football Federation but is relying on official information and FIFA statements that indicate a strong likelihood of the team’s participation.

These remarks reflect growing optimism among organizers after a period of uncertainty surrounding Iran’s involvement due to geopolitical tensions between the two countries.

Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino underscored that Iran will participate in the World Cup despite ongoing military tensions linked to its conflict with the United States.

Speaking at the “Invest in America” forum organized by CNBC, Infantino emphasized that sporting qualification must be respected and that players have the right to compete.

Infantino added that he recently met members of the Iranian team during a training camp in Antalya, noting their focus and composure. He praised their technical level and clear determination to participate.

He also reiterated that football should remain separate from political disputes, while acknowledging that this is not always fully achievable. 

Infantino concluded by highlighting FIFA’s commitment to using sport as a bridge between nations and a tool for fostering global understanding.