Iran's Absence and World Cup Issues Dominate FIFA Congress

Apr 30, 2026

68 min

Apr 30, 2026 03:30

## FIFA Congress in Vancouver

The 76th FIFA Congress is taking place in Vancouver, gathering around 1,600 delegates from over 200 member associations. The event is occurring just two months before the World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

## Iran's Unexpected Departure

Iranian football officials, including FFIRI president Mehdi Taj, left Canada unexpectedly after arriving in Toronto. They reportedly felt "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers. Canada has designated the IRGC, with which Taj is associated, as a terrorist organization, making its members inadmissible.

## World Cup Participation Concerns

Iran's participation in the World Cup has been uncertain due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Despite Iran's request to move their group matches from the United States to Mexico, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran will play as scheduled.

## Infantino Under Pressure

FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces criticism over rising World Cup ticket prices and his relationship with US President Donald Trump. FIFA has increased financial distributions for the World Cup to nearly $900 million. Infantino is also urged to address concerns about the safety of visitors amid US immigration policies.

## Russia's Ban and Other Issues

The Congress may also discuss Russia's ban from international football, in place since the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Infantino has previously suggested reconsidering the ban, arguing it has not been effective.

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