FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, has reassured football fans worldwide that the 2026 World Cup will move forward as scheduled, despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking at the International Broadcast Centre in Dallas on Monday, Schirgi emphasized the immense scale and significance of the tournament, describing it as “too big” to be postponed or derailed by geopolitical tensions. His remarks come amid growing concerns about the participation of certain nations affected by regional unrest.
When questioned specifically about Iran’s involvement in the upcoming tournament, Schirgi acknowledged the complexities posed by the current war involving Israel and the United States. However, he expressed confidence that a resolution would eventually be reached, allowing all qualified teams to compete. “At some stage, we will have a resolution, and the World Cup will go on, obviously,” he stated, underscoring FIFA’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the competition. The organization remains hopeful that every team that has earned their place through qualification will be able to participate without hindrance.
FIFA has been closely monitoring developments in the Middle East, working in coordination with federal authorities and international partners to assess the situation on a daily basis. This vigilance is particularly important given the proximity of the tournament, which is set to kick off in June. Iran secured its spot in the World Cup through the Asian Football Conference, and is slated to compete in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. Two of Iran’s group matches will take place in Los Angeles, while one is scheduled for Seattle, highlighting the tournament’s expansive footprint across the United States.
While FIFA officials have maintained communication with Iran’s football federation, Schirgi refrained from disclosing specific details of those discussions. This cautious approach reflects the sensitive nature of the ongoing conflict and the challenges involved in ensuring the safety and participation of all teams. The 2026 World Cup is set to be the largest in history, featuring 48 nations competing across three host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The U.S. will host matches in 11 cities, Mexico in three, and Canada in two, showcasing a truly North American tournament.
During their visit to Dallas, FIFA representatives were also involved in unveiling plans for the city’s fan festival, a key event designed to engage supporters and enhance the World Cup experience. The International Broadcast Centre, located within the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center and still under construction, will serve as a critical hub for media operations. Schirgi highlighted that the IBC will function around the clock throughout the tournament, accommodating between 3,000 and 3,500 journalists and broadcasters from around the globe. This massive media presence underscores the global significance and reach of the World Cup, which continues to captivate audiences despite the challenges posed by international conflicts.
