Organisers for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, maintain that preparations are on schedule with 92 days remaining until the opening fixture. Political tension between the US and Iran has increased following recent regional conflicts. FIFA previously confirmed that all qualified nations must receive equal treatment regarding visas and security, according to Reuters.
Security remains a primary focus for the 48-team tournament. Officials from the US Department of State confirmed that standard visa protocols apply to all visiting athletes, per the Associated Press. The Iranian national team, which qualified for the tournament via the Asian Football Confederation, is scheduled to play its group stage matches in North American host cities.
FIFA officials stated they are monitoring the situation but have not suggested any changes to the match schedule or venue locations. The tournament begins on June 11 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Both the US and Iran previously faced each other during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar without incident.
