RRI.CO.ID, Vancouver – The participation of Iran’s national team in the Piala Dunia FIFA 2026 has become the most politically sensitive issue on the agenda of the FIFA Annual Congress held in Vancouver, Canada, on Thursday, April 30, 2026. The annual meeting carries greater weight as it takes place two months ahead of the quadrennial tournament, which will, for the first time, feature 48 teams.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. A number of strategic issues emerged during the congress, ranging from hosting costs to logistical challenges.

The large scale of the tournament across North America, with long travel distances, differing tax systems, and significant operational demands, has raised concerns among several participating countries. As quoted by Reuters, UEFA has conveyed concerns from several European football associations regarding potential financial difficulties, particularly if teams fail to advance far in the competition.

FIFA is expected to emphasize the tournament’s commercial strength, including plans to increase prize money and participation payments to record levels. The organization also views the 48-team format as a broader redistribution mechanism to support global football development.

Iran’s participation remains a key focus. Although the team has qualified for the finals, concerns over security and travel in the United States have prompted authorities in Tehran to seek guarantees and propose alternative venues. However, FIFA has rejected any schedule changes and insists all teams must play as planned.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stressed the importance of positioning football as a symbol of global unity. “He said it is important to show that football continues and includes the Iranian team. Now, it is even more important to show the world that we are united and can come together in a peaceful environment,” Infantino said.

In addition, visa access and travel restrictions have also become major concerns. Several administrative obstacles have been reported, including the denial of entry to officials from the Palestinian Football Association to Canada ahead of the congress.

Iran’s delegation was also reportedly absent due to visa issues, according to sources familiar with the matter. An Asian Football Confederation (AFC) delegate, who requested anonymity, expressed concern over the readiness of the event.

“He stated that if such issues occur in Canada, where it should be easier, what will happen during the World Cup in the United States?” the delegate said.

FIFA stated it is working with host governments to facilitate delegate access, although the final list of participants will only be confirmed when the congress begins. Overall, logistics remain a major challenge.

The tournament, spanning three countries, multiple time zones, and vast distances, is expected to test the readiness of teams, supporters, broadcasters, and organizers in unprecedented ways. FIFA estimates the 2026 World Cup will be the largest and most profitable in history, with projected revenue reaching 13 billion U.S. dollars (approximately Rp208 trillion).

Nevertheless, the main challenge will be ensuring that the expanded tournament is not only bigger, but also conducted in a fair, viable, and truly global manner.