Iran secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup over a year ago by topping its AFC third-round group with a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25, 2025, marking its seventh appearance and fourth straight entry. Recent trader consensus at 87% Yes reflects FIFA president Gianni Infantino's repeated assurances in early May 2026 that Iran will participate despite geopolitical tensions, including U.S. hosting and travel safety concerns amid ongoing conflicts. Iran's Football Federation affirmed it will "definitely" join but demanded guarantees from host nations U.S., Canada, and Mexico on security and visas, while U.S. officials stated no objections. Protests for exclusion failed at the FIFA Congress, underscoring sporting merit over politics, though late diplomatic escalations could still impact participation before the June kickoff.