FIFA president Infantino says Iran will participate in World Cup ‘for sure’ despite war

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that Iran would “for sure” participate in the World Cup despite its war with the United States.

Speaking at CNBC’s Invest in America forum, Infantino said it was important for Iran to participate in the World Cup, even though its participation has been in doubt since the United States and Israel launched airstrikes on the country.

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“The Iranian team will come, for sure, yes,” Infantino said. “We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be peaceful. Like I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They are qualified. The players want to play.”

Infantino met the Iranian national team in Antalya, Türkiye, two weeks ago and said Wednesday he was impressed.

“I went to see them. They’re actually a very good team too,” Infantino said. “And they really want to play and they should play. Sports should now be out of politics.”

Infantino acknowledged that it is not always possible to achieve a separation between sport and politics.

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“OK, we don’t live on the Moon, we live on planet Earth,” Infantino said. “But you know, if there’s no one else who believes in building bridges and keeping them, you know, intact and together, well, we’re doing that work.”

The United States will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico.

Iran is scheduled to play two group stage matches in Inglewood, California, and one in Seattle.

The war has raised doubts about Iran’s participation in the World Cup. There have been conflicting public comments from the Iranian government and football officials. US President Donald Trump discouraged the Iranian team from participating in the tournament, citing security concerns.

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AP Football: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer