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Iran 'definitely' at WC, but lays out concerns

ESPN Soccer •
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The Iranian Football Federation has confirmed that the nation will participate in the 2026 World Cup, despite ongoing concerns regarding the team's treatment and logistical arrangements. The federation issued a statement on Saturday affirming their commitment to the tournament, while simultaneously pressing FIFA and the host nations to address specific issues raised by the Iranian delegation. Key among these concerns is ensuring that the Iranian team and its supporters are treated fairly throughout the competition.

The federation emphasized that while their presence is certain, the operational details and the environment surrounding their participation must meet acceptable standards. This confirmation comes amid a period of heightened international scrutiny regarding Iran's domestic situation, which has previously led to discussions about the potential for political interference in sporting events. The federation is seeking assurances that the focus will remain strictly on football, allowing the team to compete without external pressure or discrimination.

The statement did not detail the specific nature of the concerns beyond general treatment, but it signals that Iran intends to engage robustly with FIFA to secure guarantees before the tournament commences.