FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced that Iran will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Infantino emphasized the importance of unity amidst ongoing tensions, particularly after Iran's delegation was unable to attend the FIFA Congress due to entry issues in Canada. This incident highlighted the political challenges surrounding Iran's participation, especially following the designation of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization by Canadian authorities. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his approval of Iran's participation, stating, 'Let them play.' However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that Iranian players would not be allowed to bring individuals with ties to the IRGC. Protests outside the congress reflected the contentious political climate, with demonstrators calling for regime change in Iran and denouncing the IRGC as terrorists. The complexities of the tournament's cross-border nature raise concerns about visa restrictions and diplomatic frictions affecting teams and officials.