FIFA Monitoring Developments Ahead of 2026 World Cup After U.S. Attack on Iran

Iran is scheduled to play group stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

FIFA says it will "monitor developments" and focus on ensuring the safety of all teams participating in the 2026 World Cup, following a U.S. military attack on Iran. Iran is one of the qualified teams for the tournament, set to play its group stage matches in Inglewood, California and Seattle, Washington.

Why it matters

The escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran raise concerns about the safety and security of the 2026 World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA must ensure the tournament proceeds without incident, despite the geopolitical tensions.

The details

Iran is scheduled to play its three group games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California and Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. The team is also planning to set up a training base in Tucson, Arizona. FIFA general secretary Mattias Grafström stated it is too early to comment in detail, but the organization will monitor developments and focus on ensuring a safe World Cup for all participating teams.

  • On February 28, 2026, the U.S. launched missile strikes on major Iranian cities, along with Israel.
  • Iran responded with missile attacks on Israel and American air bases in the Middle East.
  • In December 2025, Iran was drawn into Group G of the 2026 World Cup with Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

The players

Mattias Grafström

FIFA general secretary who stated the organization will monitor developments and focus on a safe World Cup for all participating teams.

Gianni Infantino

FIFA president who awarded U.S. President Donald Trump the organization's first-ever Peace Prize prior to the 2026 World Cup draw.

Donald Trump

U.S. President who imposed a travel ban for Iranian nationals last June, but with exceptions for athletes and support staff traveling to the World Cup.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We had a meeting today and it is premature to comment in detail, but we will monitor developments around all issues around the world. We had the finals draw in Washington in which all teams participated, and our focus is on a safe World Cup with all the teams participating.”

— Mattias Grafström, FIFA general secretary (ESPNFC)

What’s next

FIFA will continue to communicate with the three host governments of the 2026 World Cup - the United States, Canada, and Mexico - to ensure the safety and security of all participants.

The takeaway

The escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran pose a significant challenge for FIFA as it prepares to host the 2026 World Cup. The organization must navigate these geopolitical complexities to ensure the tournament proceeds safely and securely for all teams and fans.